Angiology - MiniHospital “S.Pertini”

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Angiology

Angiology and Phlebology

The angiologist is the medical specialist who deals with the diagnosis and treatment of pathologies affecting the arterial, venous, and lymphatic systems. The phlebologist, on the other hand, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of venous pathologies. Often, the two specialties overlap, but both focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of vascular pathologies in general. Angiological issues are particularly common, affecting approximately one-third of the population of the Western world, especially women.

The main pathologies include chronic venous insufficiency and thrombotic events, varicose veins, lymphedema of the lower limbs, vascular ulcers, and chronic obstructive arteriopathy. Individuals who should particularly undergo an angiologist visit are those with diabetes, high blood pressure, varicose veins, ulcers, and a history of deep vein thrombosis.

The angiologist/phlebologist examination and in-depth tests

The purpose of the examination is to assess the venous and arterial circulation in order to diagnose and monitor any pathologies. The specialist gathers a detailed medical history of the patient to identify risk factors (lifestyle, family history of diabetes, hypertension, smoking, cholesterol, etc.), then performs a physical examination to detect varicose veins or areas of abnormal redness and proceeds with auscultation to check for proper pulsation and to detect the presence or absence of vascular murmurs. In addition to blood tests for cholesterol markers or other artery diseases, the angiologist may use techniques such as color Doppler ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, CT angiography, etc.

The angiologist often works in teams with other professionals, involving a comprehensive approach that may include vascular surgeons, dermatologists, nutritionists, internists, physiatrists, physiotherapists, and podiatrists, depending on the case.