Vascular surgery

We provide comprehensive vascular surgical services and our clinical performance regularly tops national league tables. This is combined with our international reputation for teaching and research. We are proud of the quality of care delivered on our dedicated vascular ward at Glenfield Hospital.

By working closely as a specialist multidisciplinary team, we offer key-hole surgery for aortic aneurysms and blocked arteries in the legs. Our surgical work is crucially supported by dedicated vascular anaesthetists and a fully equipped intensive care department.
   
The most modern ultrasound scanning methods are provided by our vascular technologists in the vascular studies unit. This team is nationally renowned for their skill and research, and allows the diagnosis of circulation problems without needles or radiation!
    
40% of vascular problems occur as emergencies. UHL offers round-the clock, 365 days a year consultant-led care.

Vascular Limb Salvage and Emergency Clinic (VaLS)

In September 2017, the University of Leicester and UHL received a generous donation from local businessman Mr George Davies via his charitable trust.

Mr Davies’ intention was to fund research into peripheral vascular disease and establish the Vascular Limb Salvage and Emergency (VaLS) clinic. The clinic aims to provide rapid access to patients with potential poor leg circulation (critical limb ischaemia), for assessment and intervention as required.

Who do we see in the VaLS clinic?

Patients with critical limb ischaemia – pain in the leg(s) at rest or at night (with or without a wound), for two or more weeks, which is due to suspected poor circulation. 

Referrals should be made by healthcare professionals such as GP, district nurse, podiatrist, A&E or other specialist. So if you think you may be suffering please see any of the professionals above. They can then refer to the VaLS team.

What happens when a referral has been made?

Once a referral has been received by the VaLS team one of the specialist nurses will contact the patient to arrange an appointment. We aim to see patients within two working days of referral to the service.

What do patients need to bring to the VaLS clinic?

• All medications (including insulin) 
• Any previous medical letters
• If you have any dressing at home, please bring them – you may need to stay in hospital if we find an urgent issue
• Walking-aids if used

What will happen at the appointment?

Please allow two to five hours as a number of investigations take place whilst in the department. Patient will see a specialist nurse and be asked questions regarding their symptoms and past medical history.

1. Patient will have their blood pressure, height and weight checked
2. Patient may have a blood test and ECG
3. Patient will have a blood pressure measurement taken at the ankle and/or big toe (Doppler/ ABPI)
4. Patient may need to have a ultrasound scan of their leg(s). Ultrasound is a painless method of looking at the blood vessels and circulation
5. Patient may need to have a CT scan- depending on results
6. Patient will see the vascular consultant on call (or member of the medical team) where a treatment plan will be made
7. Patient may also be approached by a member of the research team

What can you do to help prevent Critical Limb Ischaemia?

• Stop smoking
• Manage cholesterol levels
• Control blood pressure
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Control blood sugar levels
• Take regular exercise