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The patient with peripheral vascular disease is at serious risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Over a five-year period, after diagnosis of peripheral vascular disease, patients have a 30% chance of cardio or cerebrovascular mortality. In addition to this, there is a 20% risk of non-fatal MI or stroke. It is incumbent upon the vascular surgeon to recognize this risk and to assist in the treatment. Direct intervention by the vascular surgeon in overall cardiovascular mortality can take different approaches. Listed below in a table format are the American Heart Association suggested guidelines for secondary prevention. This is placed in a format that can be downloaded and printed to send out to a referring medical physician. This way the vascular surgeon can assist in implementing these guidelines, while not directly ordering the medications. We hope this will assist you over the long term in the care of your patients.
