If you’re a patient living with peripheral artery disease (PAD), you may be wondering what’s best, vascular surgery or minimally invasive treatment. Understanding your treatment options is crucial. Consulting a vascular specialist can help you understand the benefits and risks of all treatment options and determine the best course of action for your individual case. At USA Vascular Centers, we provide three different non-surgical vascular treatments that can help relieve painful PAD symptoms and prevent serious health consequences. Our experts are here to help you choose a non-invasive approach based on your medical history and the severity of your condition.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and recovery times of these vascular surgery alternatives available at USA Vascular Centers and how they compare to surgery. Here’s everything you need to know.
Overview of Non-Surgical Vascular Treatments
At USA Vascular Centers, our skilled vascular doctors provide personalized recommendations based on the severity of your PAD condition. Depending on your evaluation by our vascular doctor, they may recommend one of the following three minimally invasive vascular treatments for PAD:
Angioplasty
During an angioplasty, an IV is inserted into the veins, and a catheter is guided into the affected artery. The catheter contains a small balloon on the tip. Once the balloon is positioned correctly, it’s inflated, and the plaque is compressed against the artery walls. This vascular surgery alternative takes around 30-45 minutes, and many patients feel relief shortly after the procedure.
Stent Placement
After the angioplasty, a stent—a metal mesh tube designed to expand inside an artery and prevent future blockages—replaces the catheter and balloon. The procedure takes 30-45 minutes and is considered a low-risk vascular surgery alternative.
Atherectomy
During an atherectomy, a catheter tube is inserted in the groin or upper thigh. The catheter uses a laser or tiny blade to carefully eliminate plaque from the arterial walls. The catheter is then removed, physically removing the plaque from the body.
Recovery Time for Minimally Invasive Treatments
All vascular treatments provided at USA Vascular Centers are minimally invasive, low-risk, and require minimal downtime. None of the incisions require stitches, and we use local sedation instead of general anesthesia, contributing to a shorter vascular recovery time. Most patients recover within one to two weeks and can return to everyday activities after 48 hours.
After the non-invasive vascular treatment, patients can anticipate spending around two hours in outpatient care. Once they’re cleared, they can continue vascular treatment recovery in the comfort of their homes.
Comparing Recovery: Minimally Invasive vs. Surgical Procedures
Based on the patient’s overall health, vascular surgeries can have higher associated risks and recovery times than non-surgical vascular treatments.
The vascular recovery time for a surgery like carotid endarterectomy can be anywhere between three to four weeks. While a peripheral artery bypass can be anywhere from six to eight weeks. Some common risks associated with vascular surgeries like these include blood clots, bleeding, infections, stroke, and nerve injury.
At USA Vascular Centers, we focus on low-risk, minimally invasive treatments that ensure a faster recovery time and less discomfort. Most patients can return to everyday activities in a fraction of the vascular recovery time and experience little to no complications after treatment.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Treatment Over Surgery
There are many advantages to non-invasive vascular surgery alternatives. Some of the benefits patients can look forward to include:
Shorter Recovery Time
Most patients fully recover in just one to two weeks, just a fraction of the recovery time associated with major vascular surgeries.
Lower Risk of Complications
Surgery is risky, especially for elderly patients or individuals with underlying health conditions. Treatments at USA Vascular Centers are less invasive, providing patients with peace of mind and reassurance throughout the duration of the vascular treatment recovery process.
Less Post-Treatment Discomfort
Patients with PAD who opt for a minimally invasive vascular treatment experience less discomfort after surgery. Most individuals can return to their daily activities after two days.
Post-Treatment Care and Tips
After non-surgical treatment, patients should follow proper post-treatment care steps provided by the vascular specialist. These post-treatment care tips can improve vascular treatment recovery and help patients avoid discomfort and unwanted complications. This includes:
- Commit to a Healthier Lifestyle: Patients who receive minimally invasive vascular treatment should prioritize a well-rounded diet, avoid smoking, and adjust their lifestyle to lose excess weight.
- Avoid Exercise for Two Days: Strenuous activity should be avoided the first two days after the procedure. Once cleared by a medical provider, patients should exercise regularly and prioritize a more active lifestyle.
- Keep Treated Area Clean: The treated area should be covered with a bandage to avoid infection. Individuals should also try to keep the area dry and clean at all times.
- Know the Warning Signs: If you experience bloody drainage, numbness, or weakness in your leg, contact your vascular specialist immediately. While these complications are rare, knowing the warning signs can help you avoid serious complications.
Consult With a Vascular Specialist at USA Vascular Centers
If you’re a patient with PAD, we recommend exploring all options you have available and weighing the pros and cons of both surgical and non-surgical options. In most cases, minimally invasive vascular treatment can lead to fewer complications than surgery and is a more suitable option for individuals with PAD.
At USA Vascular Centers, we provide minimally non-surgical vascular treatments to patients with PAD. Our team is here to help you develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs to help alleviate your symptoms.
