Cayman’s Health Services Authority has reintroduced vascular surgery services, which includes both minimally invasive and open operations.
In a press release, the Health Services Authority said patients facing diabetes-related complications and kidney disease that can lead to limb loss can now receive more advanced, coordinated care.
“Here in the Cayman Islands, the most common conditions we see include peripheral artery disease, diabetic foot complications, varicose veins and dialysis access issues,” explained Dr. Steven Richardson, the new vascular surgeon at the Health Services Authority.
“We also can see and treat patients with stroke caused by carotid artery disease, and less commonly aneurysms, which are swellings in the arteries of the body,” he added.
Richardson noted that diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are leading causes of vascular disease locally, often worsened by sedentary lifestyles and smoking.
He emphasised that two of the most common causes of limb loss worldwide are diabetes and kidney disease complications – conditions that can often be prevented through timely, coordinated care.
“The encouraging part is that most amputations can be prevented through early vascular assessment and revascularisation,” said Richardson.
STEPS survey
According to the Cayman Islands STEPS 2023 Survey, approximately one in 10 adults (10.8%) have been diagnosed with raised blood sugar or diabetes, while nearly one in four (23.6%) have never had their blood sugar checked, said the release.
Among those living with diabetes, half have never had a foot examination, significantly increasing the risk of ulcers, poor circulation and amputation.
“Diabetes damages both small and large blood vessels, reducing blood flow and sensation in the legs and feet. Even minor injuries can become ulcers or infections that fail to heal,” Richardson explained.
Multidisciplinary approach
Dr. Delroy Jefferson, medical director of the Health Services Authority, said, “The addition of a vascular surgeon strengthens our integrated model of care for chronic diseases like diabetes.”
Jefferson also highlighted the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to managing chronic diseases, adding, “Dr. Richardson works closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure patients receive comprehensive treatment addressing circulation, infection control and metabolic health.”
Patients can access vascular surgery services through referral from their general practitioner or specialist, said the release.
