[Vascular surgery after the year of 2000--challenges for the future]

Vascular surgery is in a dynamic phase of rapid development. Particularly endovascular procedures have revolutionized the care of vascular patients. Around 35-40% of all interventions in Sweden are endovascular. In all aspects of vascular surgery (arterial, venous, endovascular, biomaterials) there is a great need for more basic knowledge. The organization of vascular units must be centered around the vascular patient. Specialists need to collaborate in the care of each patient. It is proposed that the care of vascular patients should be organized in Vascular Departments.