Cardiologist vs. Vascular Surgeon

Sometimes health specializations can be as confusing as medical terms. Knowing what a specialist does and does not do can help you choose the right provider for your specific health needs. Cardiologists and vascular surgeons are both medical experts, but cater specifically to different areas.

The Role of a Cardiologist

Also known as heart doctors, cardiologists are medical professionals who are specifically trained to diagnose and treat heart disease and other conditions related to the cardiovascular system. Cardiologists use medications and at times, provide dietary and other wellness recommendations to treat heart and vascular conditions.

When a patient is suspected with a heart disease, the cardiologist usually orders a number of tests such as angiograms and catheterization in order to understand the nature of the condition. If non-invasive remedy will not solve the problem, the patient will then work with a cardiovascular surgeon for a surgical treatment option.

The Role of a Vascular Surgeon

Vascular Surgeons diagnose, treat, and manage issues affecting circulation outside the heart and brain, especially the legs, arms, neck and kidneys. They are specifically trained to treat peripheral Vascular System issues medically, minimally-invasively, and surgically, if needed. Only a Vascular Surgeon can provide all treatment options.

Vascular surgeons’ expertise is in using advanced endovascular techniques including angioplasty and stenting to restore blood flow. They also use open surgery for conditions such as complex lesions or limb salvage when needed.

Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville has East Tennessee’s largest group of board-certified vascular surgeons, many of whom are endovascular fellowship-trained. To learn more about vascular surgery at Premier, visit our website.