Medical procedures—especially vascular procedures—can feel overwhelming when you’re unfamiliar with the terms or unsure what to expect. Many patients feel anxious simply because no one has explained the procedure in plain language.
At Aria Vascular, we believe informed patients feel more confident and empowered. This guide explains common minimally invasive vascular procedures, what they do, and why they’re often preferred over traditional surgery.
What Are Minimally Invasive Vascular Procedures?
Minimally invasive vascular procedures use small access points, advanced imaging, and specialized tools to diagnose and treat blood vessel conditions—without large incisions or open surgery.
In the past, many vascular conditions required major operations with long recovery times. Today, interventional radiology and endovascular techniques allow doctors to treat the same conditions with:
- Less pain
- Faster recovery
- Lower complication risk
These procedures are often performed on an outpatient basis, meaning most patients go home the same day.
Common Minimally Invasive Vascular Procedures
Below are some of the most frequently performed minimally invasive procedures at Aria Vascular, explained in patient-friendly terms.
Angiogram
An angiogram is a diagnostic procedure used to examine blood flow inside arteries.
A contrast dye is injected through a small catheter, and X-ray imaging shows how blood moves through the vessels. This allows doctors to identify:
- Narrowed or blocked arteries
- Poor circulation
- Abnormal vessel structure
Angiograms can evaluate arteries almost anywhere in the body—without surgical incisions.
Angioplasty
Angioplasty is used to restore blood flow in narrowed or blocked arteries.
A thin tube with a small balloon is guided through the artery to the blockage. Once in position, the balloon is inflated to widen the artery and improve circulation.
Angioplasty is commonly used to treat:
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
- Carotid artery disease
- Other circulation issues
Arterial Stent Placement
After angioplasty, a stent may be placed to keep the artery open.
A stent is a small metal mesh tube that expands inside the artery and stays in place permanently. Some stents release medication to reduce the risk of re-narrowing.
Stents help maintain long-term blood flow and reduce the need for repeat procedures.
Venogram
A venogram is a diagnostic test used to evaluate veins, most often in the legs.
Contrast dye is injected into the veins, allowing doctors to identify:
- Blood clots (such as deep vein thrombosis)
- Venous blockages
- Abnormal blood flow
Venograms are especially useful when symptoms such as swelling or leg pain are present.
Venoplasty
Venoplasty is similar to angioplasty, but it treats veins instead of arteries.
A balloon-tipped catheter is used to widen narrowed veins, allowing blood to flow more efficiently. This procedure is often used to treat:
- Chronic venous obstruction
- Post-thrombotic syndrome
Venous Stent Placement
If a vein is prone to collapsing or re-narrowing, a venous stent may be placed during or after venoplasty.
Venous stents help support the vein, improve circulation, and reduce the likelihood of future symptoms or procedures.
Carotid Angiography and Stenting
Carotid arteries supply blood to the brain. When these arteries narrow, the risk of stroke increases.
Using minimally invasive techniques, doctors can:
- Image the carotid arteries (angiography)
- Open the artery with a balloon
- Place a stent to keep it open
This approach avoids open neck surgery in many patients.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Vascular Procedures
Compared to traditional open surgery, minimally invasive vascular procedures offer several advantages:
Smaller Incisions & Less Blood Loss
Only a small puncture is needed—often just a few millimeters—resulting in minimal trauma and reduced bleeding.
Less Pain & Shorter Recovery
Most patients experience less discomfort and return to normal activities much sooner.
Minimal Scarring & Lower Complication Risk
Smaller access points reduce scarring and significantly lower infection risk.
Reduced Anesthesia Requirements
Many procedures use local anesthesia or conscious sedation instead of general anesthesia.
High Success Rates
Endovascular procedures have excellent outcomes and often provide significant symptom relief.
Understanding the Risks
While minimally invasive procedures are very safe, all medical procedures carry some level of risk.
Catheter-Related Risks
Rare risks include bruising, bleeding, or vessel irritation at the puncture site. Serious complications are uncommon.
Contrast Dye Reactions
Some patients may experience mild allergic reactions to contrast dye. Severe reactions are rare and closely monitored.
X-ray Exposure
Radiation levels are kept very low and are considered safe for patients.
Kidney Considerations
Patients with kidney disease are carefully evaluated. Hydration and monitoring help protect kidney function.
How Vascular Procedures Have Evolved
Over the past two decades, vascular care has changed dramatically.
What once required large incisions and extended hospital stays can now be done through image-guided techniques using tiny access points. Advanced imaging allows doctors to see inside the body without opening it surgically.
Technology continues to advance, making procedures even safer, more precise, and less invasive.
Why Choose Aria Vascular
Facing a vascular procedure can feel intimidating—but understanding your options makes a powerful difference.
Minimally invasive vascular procedures offer effective treatment with less pain, faster recovery, and excellent outcomes. At Aria Vascular, our goal is to deliver advanced care while keeping patient comfort, safety, and clarity at the center of everything we do.
If you have questions or want to learn whether a minimally invasive option is right for you, our team is here to help.
Patients choose Aria Vascular for:
- State-of-the-art ultrasound-guided treatments
- Personalized care plans
- Minimally invasive expertise
- Local care in Stockton serving Lodi, Manteca, Modesto, and surrounding communities
You don’t need to travel far for world-class vascular care.
