The practice of Vascular Surgery continues to evolve as new technologies are introduced and research suggests alternative therapeutic options. This course is intended to review and evaluate the latest of these advances and innovations throughout the vascular tree including the brachiocephalic, carotid and renal arteries. In addition, the most current advances in endovascular aneurysm treatments will be presented by a panel of internationally known practitioners of the art. The program also features two mini-symposia: The Wylie Symposium, looking into the future training and practice of Vascular Surgeons and reviewing recent advances in both basic and clinical research; and The Fogarty Symposium, reviewing and evaluating innovations and new devices for therapy of vascular disease. The course features interactive panel discussions and case presentation sessions which exemplify the pros and cons of the various options to treat specific problems. On Saturday, there will be breakout sessions reviewing topics specific to both vascular technologists and vascular nurses. Finally, the course features two state-of-the-art lectures by Juan Parodi, MD, who was the first to perform endovascular aneurysm repair, and K. Wayne Johnston, the current Editor of the Journal of Vascular Surgery.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

At the conclusion of the symposium, the participants should be able to:

1. Discuss current treatment alternatives, surgical and endovascular, for patients with vascular diseases involving the brachiocephalic, carotid, and renal arteries.

2. Delineate the pros and cons of endovascular aneurysm repair and the most current advances in devices and techniques in this rapidly evolving field.

3. Assess risk factors for peripheral vascular disease including hypercoagulability and determine appropriate management options.

4. Determine the natural history of aortic and iliac aneurysms and the optimal timing of intervention for these lesions.

5. Review the clinical implications of recent advances in basic and clinical research in angiogenesis, thrombolysis, controlling intimal hyperplasia and atherogenesis.

6. Plan the optimal strategy for hemodialysis access and salvage of failing fistulas and grafts.

7. Review the techniques and results of surgical and endovascular options for lower extremity revascularization.