The Cooper Vascular Center

Couple riding a bikeThe Cooper Vascular Center is one of the only multi-disciplinary programs for vascular disease in the country. A unique combination of cardiologists, radiologists and vascular surgeons, the Cooper Vascular Center offers patients access to all diagnostic testing and treatment options under one center of care.

What is vascular disease?

Vascular disease is a condition that affects the blood flow by blocking or weakening blood vessels. Organs and other body structures may be damaged by vascular disease as a result of decreased or completely blocked blood flow. Those parts of the body most affected by this disease suffer the consequences of an inadequate blood supply, namely poor function, tissue damage and in some cases, death. Studies show that the impact on quality of life and life expectancy are dramatic when vascular disease is present. Severe and untreated vascular disease is associated with a significantly increased death rate in many patients.

Vascular Disease is a systemic (system wide) disease, though several areas of the body are more commonly affected:

  • Peripheral arterial disease affects the arteries in the abdomen and legs
  • Carotid artery disease affects the arteries taking blood to the brain
  • Renal artery disease affects the blood flow to the kidneys

Untreated these blockages and narrowing can cause stroke, amputation, and kidney failure.

An epidemic of untreated disease

Over 10 million people in the United States have significant peripheral vascular disease, (PVD). However, studies show that only one patient in 8 is being in any way, and only one in 40 is receiving interventional (non-surgical or catheter-based therapy) or surgical treatment. Fully 80% of patients who receive any treatment will receive medication only, even though drug therapy has proved to be largely ineffective.

Causes of vascular disease

  • Atherosclerosis — is generally characterized by the accumulation of fatty deposits along the innermost layer of the arteries. This thickening narrows the arteries and can decrease blood flow or completely block the flow of blood to organs and other body tissues and structures. It is the most common cause of vascular disease.
  • Embolus or Thrombus — is a blood vessel blocked by an embolus (a tiny mass of debris that moves through the bloodstream) or a thrombus (a blood clot).
  • Inflammation —  is inflammation of blood vessels is referred to as vasculitis, which includes a range of disorders. Inflammation may lead to narrowing and/or blockage of blood vessels.
  • Trauma or Injury — involves the blood vessels which may lead to inflammation or infection that can damage the blood vessels and lead to narrowing and/or blockage.

Risk factors for vascular disease

  • Cigarette smoking
  • Obesity
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Blockages in arteries caused by elevated levels of the blood cholesterol and lipids
  • Family or personal history or heart disease, vascular disease or strokes
  • Older than age 50
  • Sedentary lifestyle

Phone

For more information about The Cooper Vascular Center or to make an appointment with a Cooper University Hospital physician at an office near you, please call 1-800-8-COOPER (800-826-6737) to speak with a member of our physician referral and information service.

Our Offices

Camden
One Cooper Plaza
Camden, New Jersey 08103
Appointments (856) 342-2034

Cherry Hill
1210 Brace Road, Suite 103
Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08034
Appointments (856) 342-2034