What Does a Vascular Surgeon Treat?
A vascular surgeon in Singapore is a specialist in the diagnosis and surgical management of diseases affecting blood vessels — arteries, veins, and lymphatic vessels — excluding the heart and the brain. They are trained in both traditional open surgery and modern minimally invasive endovascular interventions. Singapore's vascular surgeons also often manage advanced wound care, particularly for vascular-related wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers and venous leg ulcers.
- Venous disease: Varicose veins, spider veins, chronic venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pelvic congestion syndrome
- Arterial disease: Peripheral arterial disease (blocked arteries in legs), aortic aneurysm, carotid artery stenosis, renal artery stenosis
- Diabetic complications: Diabetic foot infections, gangrene, ischaemic wounds requiring angioplasty or bypass
- Dialysis access: Arteriovenous fistula creation for haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis catheter placement
- Wound care: Complex chronic wounds including venous ulcers, pressure sores, ischaemic wounds, surgical wounds
Cost of Vascular Procedures in Singapore (2026)
| Procedure | Private Hospital (Est.) | Public (Subsidised) | Medisave |
|---|
| Initial Consultation | S$250–S$450 | S$80–S$150 | ⌠|
| Duplex Ultrasound (Veins) | S$300–S$600 | S$150–S$300 | ✅ |
| Endovenous Laser / RFA (Varicose Veins) | S$5,000–S$12,000 | S$2,000–S$6,000 | ✅ |
| Angioplasty (Leg Arteries) | S$12,000–S$30,000 | S$5,000–S$15,000 | ✅ |
| AV Fistula Creation (Dialysis) | S$6,000–S$12,000 | S$2,500–S$6,000 | ✅ |
| Wound Debridement (in-clinic) | S$200–S$500/session | S$80–S$200 | ✅ (inpatient) |
Frequently Asked Questions — Vascular Surgery
Are varicose veins dangerous?+
Varicose veins themselves are often a cosmetic and comfort issue. However, untreated varicose veins can progress to chronic venous insufficiency, skin changes (lipodermatosclerosis, hyperpigmentation), venous ulcers, and in some cases superficial thrombophlebitis. Severe varicose veins that cause pain, swelling, skin changes or bleeding should be assessed by a vascular surgeon.
What is the most effective treatment for varicose veins in Singapore?+
Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are the preferred minimally invasive treatments for incompetent saphenous veins. Both achieve closure rates of over 90% with minimal downtime. Foam sclerotherapy is used for smaller varicosities. The appropriate treatment depends on the pattern of venous incompetence identified on duplex ultrasound.
What are the warning signs of a dangerous blood clot (DVT)?+
Warning signs of deep vein thrombosis include: sudden calf pain or tightness, swelling of one leg (especially calf), warmth and redness of the affected leg, and in severe cases, a pulmonary embolism (PE) causing chest pain and shortness of breath. DVT is a medical emergency — seek urgent attention.
Can diabetic foot ulcers be healed without amputation?+
Yes. With early specialist intervention, most diabetic foot ulcers can be treated without amputation. Key elements of limb salvage include infection control, revascularisation (angioplasty or bypass to restore blood supply), offloading pressure from the wound, and advanced wound dressings. Early referral to a vascular and wound specialist dramatically improves outcomes.
Are varicose vein treatments covered by Medisave?+
Yes. Endovenous laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, and surgical stripping for varicose veins are Medisave-claimable in Singapore when performed by an accredited surgeon at a MOH-licensed facility. The amount claimable depends on the procedure code and ward class. Spider veins treated for cosmetic reasons alone are generally not covered.
