What Is a Vascular Radiologist, and What Can They Treat?

Vascular Radiologist Montclair, CA

A vascular radiologist uses imaging tools and small procedures to diagnose and treat vascular conditions. They help patients with conditions such as poor circulation, blood clots, enlarged veins, and blocked arteries. This medical professional aims to provide patients with an option when medication does not work or when traditional surgery is not the most effective option.

What does a vascular radiologist do exactly?

A vascular radiologist, also called a vascular and interventional radiologist, combines imaging with hands-on treatment. They use various technologies to visualize the inside of the body and guide precise, minimally invasive procedures. Common technologies they use include ultrasounds, computerized tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. With these tools, a vascular doctor can locate narrowed vessels, blockages, abnormal veins, fluid collections, growths, and other concerns.

Minimally invasive procedures

Another one of their key tools is a thin, flexible tube called a catheter. The radiologist may insert the catheter through a small opening in the wrist, arm, neck, or upper leg. From there, they guide the catheter to the treatment area using live imaging to deliver medication, place a stent, block blood flow to an area of concern, open a narrowed vessel, or remove excess fluid.

Because these procedures use a small access point rather than a large incision, patients can expect less discomfort, less scarring, and a shorter recovery time than with open surgery. These treatments may also allow for a same-day return home and a quicker return to regular activities.

Common circulation problems a vascular radiologist can treat

A vascular radiologist can treat conditions involving arteries, veins, and blood flow throughout the body. Examples include:

  • Peripheral artery disease. Also known as PAD, this condition can reduce blood flow to the legs, leading to pain, numbness, slow-healing wounds, or changes in skin color.
  • Deep vein thrombosis. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, often in the leg or pelvis.
  • Varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency. This condition can cause heaviness, swelling, skin changes, itching, or aching in the legs.
  • Uterine fibroids. Patients experiencing uterine fibroids may have symptoms of heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, or severe pain.
  • Vascular malformations. In some cases, people may have poorly formed veins due to abnormal blood vessel development.

Since vascular doctors can treat a wide range of problems, they work closely with other healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive care. Patients may be referred to them by their primary doctor or go the route of self-referral.

What happens during a consultation with a vascular radiologist?

Patients may see a vascular radiologist for alarming symptoms. These include:

  • Leg pain while walking
  • Swelling
  • Varicose veins
  • Skin color changes
  • Slow-healing wounds
  • Heaviness in the legs
  • Pelvic pain
  • Unexplained circulation concerns.

A consultation gives the vascular doctor time to understand the patient’s symptoms and review prior test results. 

From there, the doctor can discuss the patient’s concerns in clear terms and explain the available options. This may include medication, monitoring, lifestyle changes, a minimally invasive procedure, or referral to another healthcare provider. Additionally, the vascular radiologist aims to match the patient’s treatment plan to their unique health needs rather than recommend a procedure for every condition.

Book your consultation

A vascular and interventional radiologist can help patients move beyond ongoing discomfort caused by circulation problems. Many times, a minimally invasive procedure can offer a path to lasting relief with less downtime than traditional surgery. Schedule an appointment today to take the next step toward feeling better.

Request an appointment here: https://montclair.provascularmd.com or call ProVascularMD at (909) 235-7742 for an appointment in our Montclair office.

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