Dr. Robert I. Hacker, MD

Expert Publications

• Fibrin sheath angioplasty: a technique to prevent superior vena cava stenosis secondary to dialysis catheters.

Media Releases

Get to know General and Vascular Surgeon Dr. Robert I. Hacker, who serves patients in Missouri.

Led by Dr. Hacker, a double board certified general and vascular surgeon, St. Louis Vascular Surgical Specialists, PC specializes in addressing a diverse range of conditions. From cosmetic varicose veins to complex third-opinion limb preservation procedures, the practice is committed to providing patients with the highest level of care and expertise.

Having earned a reputation for providing exceptional care to every patient, Dr. Hacker is also affiliated with several local hospitals, including SSM Health DePaul Hospital – St. Louis and SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital – St. Charles.

Specializing in open and endovascular (minimally invasive) vascular surgery, he treats both arterial and venous diseases. In addition, he has an interest in complex limb salvage, wound care, and vascular trauma. 

“I provide each and every patient my full and undivided attention. I believe that you should be treated not as my patient, but as my family. I aim to develop long-term, meaningful relationships with my patients so that together we will treat whatever your ailment may be. Remember, no matter how complex or scary your problem may seem, I will be here for you.”

Educated in the United States, Dr. Hacker earned his Medical Degree from Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He then completed his residency in general surgery at NorthShore – Long Island Jewish Medical Center, followed by his fellowship in vascular surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

An expert in his field, the doctor is board certified in both vascular surgery and general surgery by the American Board of Surgery (ABS). The ABS is an independent, non-profit organization located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, founded for the purpose of certifying surgeons who have met a defined standard of education, training, and knowledge.

Continuing to participate at the national level in vascular societies, Dr. Hacker holds the title of Fellow with distinction in the American College of Surgeons (FACS) and the Society for Vascular Surgery (FSVS). Additionally, he is a Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) and a Registered Physician for Vascular Interpretation (RPVI).

Vascular surgery is a surgical subspecialty in which diseases of the vascular system, including the arteries, veins, and lymphatic circulation, are managed by medical therapy, minimally invasive catheter procedures, and surgical reconstruction. A vascular surgeon diagnoses, treats, and manages conditions in the arteries and veins, also called the blood vessels. These specialists treat a range of health problems, from spider and varicose veins to life-threatening aneurysms, and can help patients manage chronic conditions throughout their lives. 

Maintaining an ongoing presence in the academic sphere of medicine, Dr. Hacker has authored numerous academic publications and continues to be active in the academic vascular community.

More than just a surgeon, he is an avid photographer, woodworker, and loving dad.

Recommended Articles

• How Can I Improve Varicose Veins?

  Varicose veins can affect your self esteem, since they are distressing and painful. These veins can develop anywhere in the body, although the legs are commonly affected. They are usually twisted, swollen and deep purple or blue in color.When blood starts accumulating in the veins as a result of...

• How are Varicose Veins Diagnosed?

  Blood from body organs is transported to the heart via blood vessels, or veins.  Organs use oxygen to function, and they discharge blood that has been used that contains waste products like carbon dioxide. The veins then take the blood to the heart and back to the lungs, where the carbon dioxide is...

• What Specialists Treat Varicose Veins?

  Veins that are twisted, engorged and noticeable are referred as varicose veins. They normally form in the legs, although they can also develop anywhere on the body. This condition is frequent. The signs and symptoms of varicose veins are not many. Mild, skin ulcers and blood clots can arise from...

• 5 Tips on Living with Varicose Veins

  Varicose veins are bothersome and uncomfortable. Apart from being unattractive, varicose veins are associated with both physical and mental pain. High temperatures during the summer call for relaxed clothing, and varicose veins can prevent someone from living their life happily. Because age is one...

• Decubitus Ulcers or Pressure Ulcers: What Are They?

  Decubitus ulcers or pressure ulcers, more commonly known as bedsores, are open wounds on your skin due to the prolonged pressure applied to the area. These ulcers occur mostly over the bony prominences such as the hips, tailbone, ankle, and heels. Bedsores are a frequent condition experienced by...

• Different Types of Aneurysms

  What is an aneurysm?An aneurysm is the abnormal ballooning, widening, or bulging of a part of the artery usually caused by arterial wall weakness. When an aneurysm enlarges and ruptures, disastrous consequences, such as internal bleeding, usually happen.Aneurysms are usually found in the aorta (the...