Overview

Patients

Boston Scientific's Vascular Surgery business is a leading developer of medical technologies used to diagnose and treat vascular disease. The company is committed to providing next-generation technologies in less-invasive treatments. In less-invasive procedures, devices are usually inserted into the body through small incisions or natural openings and can be guided to most areas of the anatomy to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical problems.

The Vascular System

The vascular system is the network of blood vessels that circulate blood to and from the heart and lungs. When the vascular system is compromised with vascular disease, the network of blood vessels cannot properly circulate blood, causing a variety of problems. Vascular disease becomes increasingly common as people age. Because the disease may not cause symptoms, many people do not know that they are affected. Vascular disease is almost always caused by conditions that weaken or clog the blood vessels. The most common cause is arteriosclerosis, which is a hardening of the arteries. This prevents proper blood flow throughout the body.

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

PAD occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or clogged with fatty deposits, reducing blood flow to the legs. As a result, PAD may cause leg muscle pain when walking and can lead to disability, amputation and a poor quality of life. The blocked arteries found in people with PAD are an indication that they are likely to also have narrowed arteries to the heart and the brain. PAD is a powerful warning sign of existing cardiovascular disease and raises the likelihood of having a heart attack or stroke. (Source: Vascular Disease Foundation)