Vascular Surgeon vs Cardiologist: Roles, Diseases, Education

Key takeaways

• Vascular surgeons treat conditions affecting arteries and veins outside the heart and brain, whereas cardiologists deal with heart diseases. 
• Both careers require a bachelor’s degree in pre-med or related fields, an MD or DO in medical school, specialized training through residencies and fellowships, and certifications. 
• While vascular surgeons earn an average annual salary of $455,176, cardiologists earn $423,250. 

When discussing conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, or vascular disorders, you may encounter the terms “vascular surgeon” and “cardiologist.” These terms can lead to confusion as people may assume that both specialists focus on the same aspects of the vascular system. Yet, for patients seeking appropriate care and individuals considering a career in medicine, understanding the differences between the two roles is essential.

Vascular surgeons specialize in treating conditions affecting arteries and veins outside the heart and brain, while cardiologists focus on diagnosing and managing heart-related diseases. This blog will elaborate on the key differences between these roles by exploring their work, the conditions they treat, the tools they use, their educational pathways, and their career outlooks. 

What Is a Vascular Surgeon?

A vascular surgeon is a professional who deals with diagnosing, treating, and managing vascular conditions outside the heart and brain. This includes conditions affecting arteries, lymphatic vessels, and veins, such as aneurysms, peripheral artery disease (PAD), varicose veins, and blood clots. They address these issues using medical treatments, surgical procedures, or minimally invasive techniques. 

Individuals experiencing symptoms like poor circulation, leg swelling, or persistent leg pain may be referred to a vascular surgeon by primary care providers for further evaluation and treatment.

What Is a Cardiologist?

The term “cardiologist” refers to medical experts who diagnose, treat, and prevent heart and cardiovascular system problems, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, and arrhythmias. They do so by using medications, dietary recommendations, and other non-surgical procedures.

In addition, cardiologists work on preventing heart problems by recommending lifestyle changes and other preventive measures. Patients experiencing symptoms like chest pain, irregular heartbeats, high cholesterol, or hypertension are often referred to a cardiologist.

Vascular Surgeons vs Cardiologists: Key Differences

Vascular surgeons and cardiologists are medical professionals who focus on different areas of the circulatory system. Vascular surgeons manage conditions affecting the vascular system, excluding the heart and brain, while cardiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating heart conditions.

Below, you can find more information about their specialties, roles, the diseases they treat, the tools and tests they use, their educational requirements, and career outlooks. 

Types

Apart from their focus on different areas, vascular surgeons and cardiologists also specialize in distinct subfields to address different patient needs within the vascular and cardiovascular systems. Below are the key subfields within both specialties.

Vascular surgeons:

• General vascular surgeons: These professionals address a wide range of conditions affecting blood circulation, including varicose veins, aneurysms, and arterial blockages. They provide both surgical and non-surgical treatments. 
• Endovascular surgeons: Professionally trained in minimally invasive surgery, these surgeons treat conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD) and aneurysms using catheters and imaging techniques rather than open surgery.
• Pediatric vascular surgeons: Medicals who manage vascular conditions in children and teenagers, like vascular tumors, deep venous thrombosis (DVT), vascular injuries, or arteriovenous malformations. They use medical, surgical, or minimally invasive procedures to treat these conditions.

Cardiologists: 

• General adult cardiologists: Specialists who treat common heart conditions, such as hypertension, heart disease, and chest pain, through medications, routine tests like ECGs and echocardiograms, and lifestyle advice.
• Invasive cardiologists: These professionals are qualified to perform open heart and minimally invasive surgical procedures, including angioplasty and stenting. They treat conditions such as structural heart disease, congestive heart failure, valvular heart disease, and congenital issues.
• Cardiothoracic surgeons: These medicals perform complex surgeries involving the heart, lungs, and chest organs, including heart valve replacement, heart and lung transplants, and lung cancer surgery. Cardiothoracic surgeons diagnose conditions using imaging techniques such as chest X-rays, MRI, and cardiac catheterization.

Roles and responsibilities

The responsibilities of a vascular surgeon include diagnosing and treating conditions within the blood vessels and lymphatic system using tools such as Doppler ultrasounds and CT angiography. They are qualified to perform procedures like bypass grafts, aneurysm repairs, and minimally invasive procedures such as stenting. Additionally, these surgeons ensure long-term vascular health by providing post-surgical care and ongoing treatment for chronic conditions. 

Conversely, cardiologists diagnose and manage heart-related conditions by performing blood tests, ECGs, or echocardiograms. They use non-surgical procedures, such as recommending lifestyle changes, prescribing medications, and creating treatment plans for managing conditions such as arrhythmias and cardiac failure. Cardiologists also provide long-term care for patients with chronic heart diseases. 

Diseases

Both vascular surgeons and cardiologists are crucial in managing diseases that affect the circulatory system. Although their focus may overlap in some areas, each specialist focuses on different aspects of vascular and cardiovascular health. Below, you can find common diseases they treat.

Diseases treated by vascular surgeons: 

• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Resulting from narrowed or blocked arteries that reduce blood flow to the limbs, PAD can lead to leg pain, difficulty walking, and an increased risk of stroke. Vascular surgeons restore normal circulation through bypass surgery or minimally invasive procedures. 
• Aneurysms: These are abnormal bulges in the arterial walls, such as those in the abdominal aorta. If left untreated, aneurysms can rupture, causing life-threatening internal bleeding. Treatment typically involves open surgery or stenting.
• Carotid Artery Disease: This condition refers to a blockage in the carotid arteries, which are responsible for supplying blood to the brain, increasing the risk of stroke. Vascular surgeons manage this condition through carotid endarterectomy or stenting to restore blood flow to normal levels. 

Diseases treated by cardiologists: 

• Heart failure: A condition in which the heart fails to pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms like swelling, fatigue, and shortness of breath. This condition can be treated through medications, lifestyle changes, and devices like pacemakers. 
• Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats that can increase the risk of heart attacks are known as arrhythmias. Cardiologists manage this condition through medications, surgical procedures, or implanted medical devices to regulate heart rhythms.
• Hypertension (high blood pressure): Chronic high blood pressure strains the heart and may lead to other complications, including heart stroke. To regulate and control blood pressure, cardiologists prescribe medications and lifestyle recommendations. 

Tests and tools

Both vascular surgeons and cardiologists use advanced tests and tools to identify issues and develop effective treatment plans. Below, you can find common tests and tools used by each specialist.

Tests used by vascular surgeons include: 

• Doppler Ultrasound: Used to detect blockages or blood clots in arteries and veins by measuring blood flow;
• CT Angiography: Helps in diagnosing aneurysms and arterial blockages by providing detailed images of blood vessels;
• Lymphoscintigraphy: Aids in diagnosing conditions within the lymphatic system, such as lymphedema. 

Tests used by cardiologists include: 

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the electrical signals in the heart to assess heart rhythms and detect heart attacks or arrhythmias;
• Cardiac MRI: A painless method that offers detailed images of the heart to diagnose abnormalities;
• Blood Tests: Help identify risks for heart disease by measuring cholesterol levels and cardiac enzymes. 

When it comes to tools, vascular surgeons rely on instruments like stents, catheters, and surgical tools to perform procedures such as angioplasty and bypass surgery. Meanwhile, cardiologists mostly depend on ECG machines, pacemakers, defibrillators, and imaging technology to diagnose and manage heart conditions. 

Educational requirements

Both of these impactful careers require a solid academic foundation, training, experience, and successful completion of certification exams.

Vascular surgeons begin their journey with a bachelor’s degree in pre-medicine or a related field. Then, they pursue a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic (DO) degree program. Following this, they complete a 5-year residency in general surgery and a 2-year fellowship in vascular surgery or an integrated 5-7 years program. Their expertise focuses on treating arterial and venous disorders using surgical methods. Lastly, they obtain certification by successfully passing the American Board of Surgery (ABS) vascular surgery examination. 

Cardiologists follow a similar path, starting with a bachelor’s degree and an MD or DO. They complete a 3-year residency program in internal medicine and an additional 3 to 4-year fellowship in cardiology. Cardiologists also obtain certification by passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) and earning board certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). 

For those aspiring to build a future in either field, AUA College of Medicine provides the resources and support necessary for success. Our medical school equips students with the skills, clinical knowledge, and experience needed for advanced training and residencies. With expert faculty, comprehensive support, and state-of-the-art facilities, we prepare aspiring vascular surgeons and cardiologists to excel in their careers. 

Career and salary outlook

The career and salary outlook for vascular surgeons and cardiologists has grown over the years and is expected to continue rising. Due to the aging population and an increase in the occurrence of vascular diseases, vascular surgeons are needed to perform advanced procedures within the lymphatic and circulatory systems. On the other hand, the projected shortage of cardiologists by 2034 has significantly increased the demand for professionals specializing in heart health.

Despite their differences, both fields promise strong financial and professional opportunities. Salaries are expected to increase further, especially in regions where these specialists are in short supply. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgeons, including vascular surgeons earn an average annual salary of $455,176, while cardiologists earn around $423,250. 

Which One Should You Choose?

When deciding which career to pursue, you need to consider personal interests, preferred work environment, and skill set. If you want to deal with surgical procedures and the challenge of maintaining healthy blood circulation, vascular surgery may be your calling. On the other hand, cardiology could be a better fit if you’re passionate about heart health and managing chronic conditions. 

In addition to these factors, you should consider the work environment, work-life balance, and the level of involvement in procedures. Vascular surgeons often face high-pressure situations, while cardiologists enjoy a more structured and predictable schedule. 

Reflecting on your skills and strengths is also crucial for deciding between two careers. Consider whether you excel in manual dexterity for surgery or possess strong analytical skills for diagnosing and treating heart conditions. 

Both fields require commitment, proficient skills, and years of education and training. However, they’re equally rewarding for those who aim to provide long-term care and improve patients’ lives.

Conclusion

Vascular surgeons and cardiologists play a crucial role in healthcare despite their distinct roles and responsibilities. While vascular surgeons focus more on blood vessels outside the heart and brain, cardiologists specialize in heart health and related conditions. Both these roles demand specific education, specialization, and professional development. 

Nevertheless, each role provides a rewarding career for those passionate about patient care despite potential challenges. AUA College of Medicine provides an outstanding medical education for aspiring doctors looking to advance their careers. If you want to make a meaningful impact in healthcare and improve patients’ lives, join our medical school today to launch your career tomorrow. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a cardiologist treat vascular problems?

Yes, cardiologists can treat certain vascular problems, but their expertise is generally limited to conditions related to the heart and major blood vessels. For more complex vascular issues, vascular surgeons are usually recommended.

What kind of doctor is best for heart problems?

A cardiologist is the right doctor for treating heart disease. They conduct a physical exam, assess your symptoms, and consider your family history of heart problems to provide the appropriate care.