2.7 Research, audit and education. The may advances which have occurred in the last 3 decades since vascular surgery has become common place have been the result of intensive research effort. Programmes of research represent an integral part of vascular surgical practice in all major centres. In the interest of ensuring high standards of practice all vascular surgeons are encouraged to maintain an accurate audit of their results and their performance is subject to peer review in some European countries. The dissemination of knowledge and information about new advances is effected through publications in text books and professional journals and through the medium of local, national and international meetings.
Vascular surgeons play an important role in the training of undergraduate and postgraduate students.
They also have responsibilities regarding the continuing education of primary care physicians to keep them informed of the latest advances in the prevention and treatment of vascular diseases and to encourage appropriate referral for specialist assessment.