Manuel Javier Vallina-Victorero Vázquez Appointed Head of Vascular Surgery Department at Madrid Hospital
Manuel Javier Vallina-Victorero Vázquez has been named head of the Angiología y Cirugía Vascular department at Hospital Universitario de La Princesa in Madrid, according to a hospital press release dated April 5, 2024. Vallina-Victorero, a board-certified vascular surgeon, succeeds Dr. José Antonio Fernández, who retired after 15 years in the role.
Background on Vallina-Victorero’s Career
Vallina-Victorero, who holds a medical degree from Universidad Complutense de Madrid, has led clinical research on peripheral artery disease and endovascular interventions. His work has been published in peer-reviewed journals such as *Circulation* and *Journal of Vascular Surgery*. The hospital cited his “proven expertise in advancing minimally invasive techniques” as a key factor in his appointment.
Role of the Vascular Surgery Department
The Angiología y Cirugía Vascular service at La Princesa specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting blood vessels, including aneurysms, arterial blockages, and venous insufficiency. The department performs over 1,200 surgical procedures annually, according to hospital data. Vallina-Victorero’s appointment follows a strategic initiative to expand outpatient care and reduce hospital readmission rates.
Collaboration with Andrés Álvarez Salgado
Andrés Álvarez Salgado, a vascular medicine specialist at the same hospital, will work alongside Vallina-Victorero to integrate pharmacological treatments with surgical interventions. Álvarez Salgado, who earned his MD from Universidad de Salamanca, has contributed to national guidelines on anticoagulant therapy.
Impact on Patient Care
The hospital announced plans to launch a vascular health screening program for high-risk patients, a move praised by the Spanish Society of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery. “Vallina-Victorero’s leadership ensures we remain at the forefront of innovative care,” said María López, head of hospital operations.
Future Goals
Vallina-Victorero has prioritized expanding telemedicine services for rural patients and collaborating with European research networks. His first major project includes a trial of a new stent technology approved by the European Medicines Agency in 2023.
Why This Matters
The appointment comes as Spain faces rising rates of cardiovascular disease, which accounts for 38% of annual deaths, per the Spanish Ministry of Health. Experts note that specialized vascular care can reduce complications by up to 40%, according to a 2022 study in *The Lancet*.
Key Takeaways
- Manuel Javier Vallina-Victorero Vázquez is now head of the vascular surgery department at Madrid’s Hospital Universitario de La Princesa.
- The department treats over 1,200 patients annually for vascular conditions.
- Vallina-Victorero’s focus includes minimally invasive procedures and expanding telemedicine access.