Kirk Charles, MD, FACS, RPVI

Dr. Kirk Charles is board certified by the American Board of Surgery, and his clinical interests are thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms, carotid disease, mesenteric and peripheral occlusive disease and venous disease, using both traditional open surgery and minimally invasive procedures. He also is very interested in working with patients to help prevent diseases of the vascular system, some of which can cause heart attacks or other serious problems.

Education and Training

Dr. Charles received his medical degree from Duke University in Durham, NC, and completed his residency in general surgery at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York in Buffalo, NY, and his fellowship in vascular surgery at the University of Maryland in Baltimore, MD. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Harvard University in Cambridge, MA.

What is Vascular Surgery?

This specialty focuses on diseases of the vascular system, or arteries and veins. Treatment can include medication, minimally invasive catheter procedures, and surgery reconstruction. A vascular surgeon is trained in the diagnosis and management of all parts of the vascular system except the heart and brain.

What are some treatments Dr. Kirk Charles provides?

His expertise includes:

• repairing thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms
• carotid stenting to unclog arteries
• treating venous disease, including blood clots, deep vein thrombosis, phlebitis, chronic venous insufficiency, and varicose and spider veins
• treating peripheral artery disease, which includes blockages of large arteries, often in the lower extremity
• treating varicose veins and spider veins (also in the category of venous disease), using laser ablation, sclerotherapy and ambulatory phlebectomy. Often, patients want their varicose veins removed for cosmetic reasons, but there are medical reasons for removing the veins, as well-to improve circulation and reduce the risk of clotting and more serious problems. Ambulatory phlebectomy is a way to remove varicose veins on the surface of the legs by making tiny punctures or incisions. This procedure requires no stitches, and is done in the office under local anesthesia.

Because vascular disease encompasses so many types of disorders and problems related to arteries and veins, and many which impact the heart and circulation, there often are multi-pronged approaches available to patients. In some cases, surgery is the best option while in other instances, medication or other treatments, like compression bandages or stockings, may work. In all cases, a healthier lifestyle will benefit not just your vascular system but your entire body, and that means no smoking, more exercise, good nutrition, and lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol.

For all vascular issues, Dr. Kirk Charles will make sure you understand your options and partner with you to meet your healthcare goal of alleviating your symptoms and reducing the risk of complications. He will discuss potential benefits, risks and side effects with you, and put you on the road to recovery with the treatment plan that is best for you.