Vascular Surgeon
A Vascular Surgeon has expertise in the diagnosis and care of patients with diseases and disorders affecting the arteries, veins and lymphatic systems, excluding vessels of the brain and heart. Common procedures performed by Vascular Surgeons include the opening of artery blockages to prevent stroke, correction of artery blockages in the legs and abdominal organs, repair of veins to improve circulation, treatment of aneurysms (bulges) in the aorta, and care of patients suffering vascular trauma. Vascular Surgeons perform open surgery as well as endovascular (minimally invasive) procedures using balloon angioplasty and stents, and are also trained in the treatment of vascular disease by medical (non-surgical) means. Vascular Surgeons also perform non-invasive diagnostic testing to detect vascular problems.
General Surgeon
A General Surgeon has expertise in the diagnosis and care of patients with diseases and disorders affecting the abdomen, digestive tract, endocrine system, breast, skin and blood vessels. A General Surgeon is also trained in the care of pediatric and cancer patients and in the treatment of patients who are injured or critically ill. Common problems treated by general surgeons include hernias, breast tumors, gallstones, appendicitis, pancreatitis, bowel obstructions, colon inflammation and colon cancer. General Surgeons increasingly provide care through the use of minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques. Some General Surgeons pursue additional training for one to two years and specialize in the fields of Trauma Surgery, Transplant Surgery, Surgical Oncology, Pediatric Surgery, Vascular Surgery and others.
American Board of Surgery