If you’ve been diagnosed with a vascular condition—such as peripheral artery disease, varicose veins, or an aneurysm—your doctor may recommend endovascular surgery as a treatment option. But what exactly is endovascular surgery, and how is it different from traditional open procedures?
In this article, we explore how endovascular surgery in Singapore works, its advantages, what conditions it treats, and what to expect during the procedure. Whether you’re searching for effective treatment or just learning about your options, this guide is designed to help you make an informed decision.
What Is Endovascular Surgery?
Endovascular surgery is a minimally invasive technique used to treat diseases of the blood vessels, including both arteries and veins. Instead of making large incisions, vascular surgeons use catheters, guide wires, and stents to access the problem area through small punctures—often in the groin or wrist.
This approach allows doctors to treat complex vascular issues without major surgery, which means less pain, faster recovery, and fewer complications.
Conditions Treated with Endovascular Surgery in Singapore
Endovascular techniques are commonly used to treat the following:
✅ Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Narrowed or blocked arteries in the legs can be opened with balloon angioplasty or stents to restore blood flow and relieve leg pain.
✅ Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)
A bulging section of the aorta can be repaired using endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), which places a stent graft inside the artery to prevent rupture.
✅ Carotid Artery Stenosis
Blockages in the neck arteries that supply blood to the brain can be treated with carotid artery stenting to reduce the risk of stroke.
✅ Varicose Veins & Venous Reflux
Minimally invasive methods like radiofrequency ablation, VenaSeal™, and ClariVein® close off damaged veins to relieve symptoms and improve appearance.
✅ Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Blood clots in deep veins may be treated with catheter-directed thrombolysis, which delivers clot-dissolving medication directly to the blockage.
Benefits of Endovascular Surgery
Compared to traditional open surgery, endovascular procedures offer multiple advantages:
- Smaller incisions (less scarring)
- Shorter hospital stay (often same-day discharge)
- Reduced risk of infection
- Faster recovery time
- Less pain and blood loss
- Suitable for high-risk or elderly patients
For many vascular conditions, endovascular surgery is now the preferred method due to its safety and efficiency.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Endovascular Surgery in Singapore
🩺 Pre-Procedure
Your vascular surgeon will:
- Review your medical history
- Order imaging tests (ultrasound, CT angiography, or MRI)
- Provide fasting or medication instructions
- Explain the procedure, risks, and alternatives
🧪 During the Procedure
- Performed under local or regional anesthesia (you’re awake but pain-free)
- A catheter is inserted through a small puncture (usually in the groin).
- Devices like balloons or stents are used to treat the target area.
- Procedure time: 1 to 3 hours depending on complexity
🏥 Post-Procedure
- Most patients return home within 24 hours.
- Minimal downtime; normal activity can resume within a few days
- Your doctor will schedule follow-up visits to monitor recovery.
Cost of Endovascular Surgery in Singapore
Costs vary based on the type of condition and complexity of the procedure. Here’s a rough estimate:
| Procedure | Estimated Cost (Before Insurance) |
| Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) | $4,000 – $6,000 SGD |
| EVAR (Aneurysm Repair) | $20,000 – $35,000 SGD |
| Angioplasty & Stenting | $10,000 – $20,000 SGD |
| Varicose Vein Ablation (VenaSeal) | $5,000 – $8,000 SGD |
If you’re covered under an Integrated Shield Plan (e.g., NTUC IncomeShield, Prudential, AIA) and you choose a panel vascular specialist, much of the cost may be covered or significantly reduced—especially if you have a rider.
Finding the Right Vascular Surgeon for Endovascular Surgery in Singapore
Choosing the right surgeon is crucial for a safe and successful outcome. Here’s what to look for:
- ✅ Board-certified vascular surgeon
- ✅ Experience in endovascular techniques (not just open surgery)
- ✅ Advanced imaging and operating facilities
- ✅ Insurance panel doctor (to lower out-of-pocket costs)
- ✅ Good communication and patient care reviews
One of the trusted names in this field is
👉 Dr. Darryl Lim—a vascular and varicose vein specialist in Singapore who specializes in minimally invasive vascular treatments like RFA, angioplasty, and stenting. He is also an approved NTUC panel doctor, making it easier for patients to claim insurance benefits.
Is Endovascular Surgery Right for You?
Not all patients are candidates for endovascular procedures. Your eligibility depends on:
- Type and location of the vascular problem
- Your age and overall health
- Imaging test results
- Personal preferences and treatment goals
Your vascular surgeon will help you weigh the pros and cons of each option and tailor the best plan for your needs.
Conclusion
Endovascular surgery in Singapore offers a modern, less invasive approach to treating a wide range of artery and vein conditions. Whether you’re managing chronic leg pain, dealing with varicose veins, or at risk of aneurysm, this advanced technique provides effective results with minimal disruption to your life.
For expert guidance and minimally invasive solutions, consult a vascular surgeon with experience in endovascular techniques. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can protect your health and improve your quality of life.