OUR VASCULAR SURGEONS

What is the Role of a Vascular Surgeon?

Vascular surgeons specialize in the comprehensive treatment of arteries (responsible for transporting oxygen-rich blood from the heart) and veins (responsible for returning blood to the heart), excluding those within the brain and heart. Their expertise covers a wide spectrum of conditions. For instance, vascular surgeons address issues like blocked carotid arteries situated in the neck. They also manage conditions affecting the aorta, the main artery extending from the heart into the abdomen. Additionally, they are skilled in handling peripheral vascular disease, a condition commonly affecting arteries in the legs and feet.

The role of a vascular surgeon encompasses more than just surgical interventions. They ensure that patients grappling with vascular health concerns are fully informed about and comprehend their treatment options. In essence, while vascular surgeons are capable of performing surgeries, a significant portion of their practice involves patients who may not need surgical procedures. Many vascular problems can be effectively managed through medications or lifestyle modifications like exercise.

Some providers specialize in one or two types of vascular procedures so their patients tend to get those treatments. Vascular surgeons, however, possess expertise across a broad spectrum of treatments, spanning from traditional open surgeries to minimally invasive endovascular procedures. Their approach remains impartial, prioritizing the most suitable treatment for each patient’s unique condition.

Vein Clinic

About our Vascular Surgeons

What is the Educational Training of Providers?

At Fox Valley Surgical Specialists, our team of vascular surgeons comprises individuals who have undergone specialized fellowship or specialty training. Fellowship training involves an additional 1-3 years of specialized training following the completion of medical school and residency. Specialty training encompasses an intensive focus on vascular surgery during the surgical residency, typically comprising three and a half years of a five-year program.

What Level of Experience Do Providers Possess?

As a specialized group of surgeons, the vast majority of our daily cases revolve around vascular issues. We provide care to thousands of patients annually, addressing concerns ranging from mild spider veins to critical aneurysms.

Our Vascular Surgeons & Team

Dr. Robert Ballard | FVSS of WI

Robert Ballard, MD

Dr. Robert Ballard is an accomplished general and vascular surgeon with over 20 years of experience serving the Fox Valley community and beyond. His extensive educational background and specialized training make him a leading expert in his field. His specialty vascular training includes a vascular surgery fellowship from Louisiana State University.

Dr. Jason Le

Jason Le, MD

Dr. Jason Le made Wisconsin his home through a combination of educational pursuits and personal life events. Born in Taiwan, Dr. Le moved to the United States as a teenager and spent his formative years in the Midwest. During his residency, Dr. Le met his wife, a native of Kaukauna, Wisconsin, which led them to settle in the Fox Valley. For his specialty vascular training, he is one of the first graduates of the integrated vascular surgery residency program at the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Dr. Alexander Tretinyak

Alexander Tretinyak, MD

Dr. Alexander Tretinyak is a distinguished general and vascular surgeon known for introducing innovative treatments to the Fox Valley, including the latest non-thermal-based VenaSeal procedure. His medical training includes a vascular fellowship from the University of Chicago.
Sarah Wilson, MD

Sarah Wilson, MD

Dr. Sarah Wilson is a native Wisconsinite. After obtaining her M.D. at the Medical College of Wisconsin, she completed her residency at the University of Iowa. Her vascular expertise began with vascular fellowship training at the University of Iowa and continues with her focus on performing vascular procedures.
Ariel Stilp

Ariel Stilp, APNP

Ariel Stilp is an accomplished advanced nurse practitioner who works alongside our vascular surgeons to provide exceptional patient care. Ariel has gained valuable experience working in various healthcare settings, including the emergency room, before achieving her certifications as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber (APNP)