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Question:

Should my surgery be done by a general surgeon or a heart surgeon?

I have PAD in my leg.  They are sending me to a general surgeon.  Is this a normal procedure, or should it be done by a heart surgeon? Thank you. 

submitted by Ascension from Seguin, Texas on 8/22/2011

Answer:

by Texas Heart Institute cardiovascular surgeon, Denton A. Cooley, MD    

The definition of a 'general surgeon' in your particular request is unclear. Some general surgeons are familiar with surgical procedures for peripheral arterial disease (PAD).  Others by training are certified as vascular surgeons.  Your decision regarding a surgeon should depend upon how experienced the general surgeon may be in vascular surgical procedures.    

See also on this site:  

• Peripheral Vascular Disease (including PAD)     
• Heart Information Center 

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Updated August 2011