Atherosclerosis is the progressive build-up of plaque in the artery walls. It can affect different territories, such as the coronary arteries, the carotid arteries, the aorta or the leg arteries. For this reason, a vascular assessment can help identify certain risk factors and detect some arterial changes at an early stage.
At Berkelium Surgical Group we carry out an individual assessment of vascular risk and, when indicated, different tests to study the circulation and detect arterial disease before complications appear.
Cardiovascular risk assessment
Cardiovascular prevention begins by identifying the factors that can increase the likelihood of developing arterial disease.
The main risk factors include:
- Age
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Overweight and obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Family history of cardiovascular disease
- Previous arterial disease
Controlling these factors can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications.
Preventive vascular screening
A preventive vascular study can be especially useful in people with cardiovascular risk factors, a relevant family history or known vascular disease.
Depending on each patient, it may include different non-invasive tests to study the arteries.
Early detection of atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis can progress for years without causing symptoms.
Atheromatous plaques can gradually narrow the arteries and, in certain circumstances, lead to complications.
Detecting arterial disease makes it possible to identify patients who may benefit from a more intensive cardiovascular prevention strategy and closer control of risk factors.
Aortic aneurysm screening
An aortic aneurysm occurs when part of the aortic wall becomes abnormally dilated. It can remain symptom-free for a long time and be discovered during a test carried out for another reason.
Not everyone needs aneurysm screening. Whether it is indicated depends on factors such as age, sex, family history, smoking and other risk factors.
When an aneurysm is detected, follow-up depends on its size, location, progression and characteristics.
Carotid disease screening
The carotid arteries carry blood to the brain and can be affected by atherosclerosis.
The presence of carotid plaques can be a marker of vascular disease and, in certain situations, a significant stenosis can increase the risk of stroke.
Carotid Doppler ultrasound makes it possible to study the carotid arteries and detect plaques, narrowing and blood-flow abnormalities.
Assessing the arterial circulation of the legs
Peripheral arterial disease can affect the leg arteries and, in its early stages, may not cause clear symptoms.
When there is a significant blockage, the following may appear:
- Pain when walking that improves with rest
- Tired legs
- Cold feet
- Changes in skin colour
- Wounds that do not heal
- Pain at rest in more advanced cases
The vascular examination can be complemented with arterial Doppler ultrasound and, when indicated, other tests to assess the circulation.
Detecting peripheral arterial disease makes it possible to put in place prevention and treatment measures adapted to each patient’s risk.
A vascular check-up tailored to each patient
The aim of a preventive vascular study is not only to detect disease, but to identify each person’s risk and act before complications appear.
At Berkelium Surgical Group we carry out an individual assessment of risk factors and arterial circulation, selecting the necessary tests according to each patient’s characteristics.
Our goal is to promote personalised cardiovascular prevention through early detection of arterial disease, control of risk factors and appropriate follow-up when needed.