A Legacy of Excellence and Forward-Thinking Leadership

Since joining the University Hospital of Cabueñes on March 1,2003,Dr. Manuel Vallina-Victorero has been instrumental in fostering a culture of innovation within the angiology and Vascular Surgery department. Succeeding Javier Álvarez as Head of the department, Dr. Vallina-Victorero inherited a well-managed service and has since focused on expanding treatment options and incorporating state-of-the-art technology.

Pioneering Techniques and Technologies

Under dr. Vallina-Victorero’s leadership, the department has embraced several groundbreaking techniques. These include:

• Atherectomy: A minimally invasive procedure utilizing a specialized “drill” to remove calcium deposits from within arteries.
• Endovascular Lithotripsy: Employing shock waves to break down calcified lesions in arteries, with the department even publishing the first international paper on the subject.
• Endovascular Ultrasound: The department boasts a nationally recognized expert in this advanced imaging technique.

These advancements underscore Cabueñes Hospital’s commitment to providing patients with the most advanced and effective vascular care available. The hospital’s recent recruitment of “very brilliant young people” further solidifies its position as a leading center for vascular surgery.

The service has professionals who are national referents in different pathologies… Now there are very brilliant young people, who are doing notable things. It is a luxury for the city.

Prostatic Artery Embolization: A Minimally Invasive Solution

More recently, the department has begun performing prostatic artery embolization (PAE), a minimally invasive procedure offering significant benefits for patients with enlarged prostates. This technique is notably beneficial for elderly patients with complex medical conditions. By selectively blocking blood flow to the prostate, PAE can alleviate urinary symptoms and improve quality of life, often eliminating the need for a permanent urinary catheter and reducing the risk of infection.

Robotic Surgery on the Horizon

Looking ahead, the department is actively pursuing certification for robotic surgery, with plans to utilize the Da Vinci surgical system for select cases. This technology promises enhanced precision and improved outcomes for complex procedures such as aortic surgery, aneurysm repair, and treatment of Nutcracker syndrome.

Efficient Service and Minimal Waiting Times

Despite its commitment to innovation, the Angiology and Vascular Surgery Department at Cabueñes Hospital maintains exceptional efficiency. According to the latest data, the structural waiting list includes 83 patients, with an average intervention delay of just 15 days. This is considerably lower than the six-month threshold, ensuring timely access to care for patients with vascular conditions. While varicose vein treatments may experience longer wait times due to their non-urgent nature and referral to other facilities,the vast majority of vascular pathologies are addressed promptly.

addressing the Prevalence of Peripheral Artery Disease

The most prevalent pathology treated by the department is obstructive arterial disease of the lower limbs,also known as peripheral artery disease (PAD). This condition, frequently enough linked to atherosclerosis and diabetes, is particularly common in Asturias, where a significant portion of the population is over 65.according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),PAD affects more than 6.5 million Americans aged 40 and older. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications such as limb amputation.

the obstructive art of lower limbs, obstructions of the arteries of the legs, which are associated with arterosclerosis and, in many cases, to diabetes, which in Asturias has a high prevalence. That,and that 28.8% of the population are over 65, is the optimal culture broth for obstructive art.