Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is the progressive narrowing of the blood vessels. This is most often caused by atherosclerosis (“hardening of the arteries”). Atherosclerosis can cause narrowing of the arteries in the lower extremities. This results in low blood flow to the legs which can cause muscle cramping after walking. In severe cases, it can result in gangrene and limb loss. The symptoms depend on how severely blood flow is reduced and what artery is affected.

Risk Factors for PAD

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• Lack of exercise
• Family history of disease

Diagnosis

• Arterial ultrasound and ABI waveform
• CTA (computerized tomographic angiogram) scan

Treatment

We can offer the following treatment options:

• Risk factor reduction: Cessation of smoking, regular exercise, maintaining ideal weight, controlling blood pressure, and managing diabetes are some of the way to slow the progression of peripheral artery disease.
• Medications: Trental and Pletal are two approved medications for claudication. They must be taken under the direction of a physician.
• Angioplasty and stenting: Minimally invasive procedure (endovascular) using stents and balloons to open arteries to improve blood flow.
• Bypass surgery: A blocked artery is bypassed by vein graft or artificial graft to improve flow to leg and foot.
• Atherectomy: A peripheral intervention that opens arteries blocked by plaque.
• Drug-coated therapies: A newer technology involving medications coated on stents and balloons.