A vascular surgeon is needed when blood circulation or blood vessels cause concern or require correction. Patrick Björkman works as a vascular surgery specialist at the Skin Hospital, as well as at the HUS vascular surgery clinic and Uppsala University Hospital, among other places. He focuses on two main areas: arterial and venous diseases.
“In arterial surgery, the focus is mainly on blockages and bulges in the blood vessels, which means opening, correcting and bypassing the arteries. Venous surgery, on the other hand, is often related to the treatment of venous insufficiency, the most common form of which is varicose veins in the lower limbs.”
Björkman was originally drawn to the field due to its broad scope: “Vascular surgery includes lengthy procedures that require high precision and careful planning, as well as emergency situations that call for a fast response. The fact that blood vessels run throughout the body also adds to the anatomical scope and variety.”
In addition to having technical skills, a vascular surgeon needs to be calm and reasonably open-minded. “It’s important to be interested in new developments as the field is evolving rapidly. On the other hand, the classic techniques are still in use and form the basis for new ones.”
At the heart of Björkman’s work are the patients. Vascular operations can cause them a wide range of thoughts. “Although the risk of complications related to venous surgery performed at the Skin Hospital, for example, is extremely low, it is understandable that patients have concerns. That’s why we always take time to discuss the procedure openly with the patient before the day of the operation.”
Björkman sees the unique opportunity to help others as the most rewarding aspect of his profession. “The best part of the job is the help you can give to the patient through the procedure.”
