Why Choose Baptist Health's Center for Vascular Disease
Your vascular health is essential—and at Baptist Health’s Center for Vascular Disease, you’ll receive expert, innovative care from a highly specialized team. Our board-certified vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists, neurologists, and cardiologists collaborate to treat even the most complex conditions using advanced imaging, minimally invasive techniques, and leading-edge technology.
With access to hybrid operating rooms, groundbreaking clinical trials, and a legacy of innovation led by Dr. Barry Katzen, we’re here to help you heal, recover faster, and get back to the life you love.
Our Approach
The Center for Vascular Disease is part of Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Institute, which has pioneered team-based, multidisciplinary care since 1987. Rather than focusing solely on a specialty or procedure, our providers work collaboratively—choosing the right treatment strategy for each patient, whether it's open surgery, a minimally invasive intervention, or a combination of both.
This patient-first approach ensures that every care plan is highly personalized, with the best possible outcome in mind.
By the Numbers: Vascular Disease
1 in 20 adults over age 50 has peripheral artery disease (PAD), a common yet underdiagnosed vascular condition.
Up to 25% of people with PAD are at risk of heart attack, stroke, or death within five years without treatment.
Vascular diseases account for more than 500,000 hospitalizations in the U.S. each year.
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is responsible for 15,000 deaths annually—but early detection and intervention can prevent rupture.
Popular Conditions and Treatments
Frequently Asked Questions
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Carotid arteries are located on each side of the neck and carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the brain.
Like other arteries, they can become narrowed or blocked by plaque, which increases the risk of stroke. In many cases, treatment focuses on medical management, including medications such as aspirin and statins.
If the artery becomes significantly narrowed, a vascular surgery consultation is recommended. Treatment options may include:
- Carotid endarterectomy: A surgical procedure that removes plaque from the artery
- Carotid artery stenting: A minimally invasive procedure that uses a stent to widen the artery and improve blood flow
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Aortic aneurysms often do not cause symptoms and can sometimes be safely monitored.
A diagnosis does not always require immediate treatment. Many aneurysms are discovered during imaging for another condition. Once diagnosed, it is important to be monitored by a vascular surgeon because the condition can change over time.
If you develop unusual back or abdominal pain that does not go away, seek medical attention right away.
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Peripheral artery disease (PAD) commonly affects older adults and people with risk factors such as smoking or limited physical activity.
A common symptom is leg cramping, especially in the calves, that occurs while walking and improves with rest. If you experience these symptoms, a vascular specialist can evaluate you and recommend treatment.
Treatment options may include medications, minimally invasive procedures such as angioplasty and stenting or, in some cases, bypass surgery.
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Several factors can affect circulation and increase the risk of vascular disease.
Common risk factors include:
- Genetics
- Tobacco use
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Obesity
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Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) occurs when the valves in the leg veins do not function properly.
These valves normally help blood flow back to the heart. When they do not work as they should, blood can pool in the legs and increase pressure in the veins.
CVI may cause swelling, pain, heaviness in the legs or discomfort when walking. It can also lead to complications such as varicose veins or open sores.
Our Locations
Vascular Surgery | Boca Raton (Lynn Heart & Vascular Institute)
Vein Care | Boca Raton (Lynn Heart & Vascular Institute)
Vascular Surgery | Boynton Beach (Seacrest)
Cardiology & Sleep Medicine | Pinecrest
Our Vein Clinic: Specialized Care for Vein Health
At Baptist Health’s Vein Clinic, we focus on diagnosing and treating a wide range of vein-related conditions—from varicose and spider veins to chronic venous insufficiency and venous ulcers.
If you’re living with leg pain, swelling, varicose veins, or other symptoms of vein disease, the Vein Clinic at Lynn Heart & Vascular Institute—part of Baptist Health—offers the expert care you need. Led by board-certified vascular surgeon Dr. Eileen C. de Grandis, our team uses the latest diagnostic imaging and minimally invasive treatments to address both medical and cosmetic vein concerns.
Whether you’re experiencing cosmetic concerns or uncomfortable symptoms, our vein specialists are here to help you feel—and look—your best.
Pioneering The Cures Of Tomorrow
Our researchers play a vital role in helping us better understand heart and vascular disease. They participate in a wide variety of clinical trials dedicated to improving treatments that will ultimately lead to better patient outcomes. Learn more about their work and what it means to be involved in a clinical trial.
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