Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

When the arteries that carry blood to the legs become narrowed or clogged with plaque, patients may develop Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). A relatively common circulatory condition, its symptoms often are mistaken for signs of normal aging. Fortunately, the vascular surgeons at ARA Health offer minimally invasive procedures to clear away accumulated plaque, correct narrowing vein walls, and ultimately improve blood flow.

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About Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

PAD limits blood flow to the tissues of the legs, which can cause pain with exertion (relief with rest), pain in legs or feet while resting or lying flat, cold and/or painful legs or feet, and ulcerations or wounds on the legs or feet that will not heal. Also referred to as Peripheral Vascular Disease, PAD can occur in anyone but is most common in men and women over the age of 50. Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

PAD Diagnosis

PAD is typically diagnosed through an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test, vascular ultrasound, and CT angiogram.

PAD Treatments

Angioplasty
Using X-ray guidance, interventional radiologists thread a catheter through the affected artery to place a balloon device. The balloon is inflated, opening up areas that have narrowed and improving blood flow.

Atherectomy
Instead of using a balloon device, physicians may use a small blade to remove plaque from the arteries to improve blood flow and vein health.

Stent Placement
Sometimes stents (metal coils) are positioned within the affected artery as a long-term support for narrowing vein walls.

You have questions. We have answers.

Below is a list of some of the questions we get asked most frequently from our patients. If you have additional questions, feel free to reach out to our ARA Cares Coordinator at (828) 436-5500.

How do I prepare for angioplasty/atherectomy/stent placement?
Coming soon!
What can I expect during image-guided biopsy?
Many specifics are determined by the type of incision and imaging technology used for the image-guided biopsy. Many can be performed using a local anesthetic, while others require a general anesthetic or conscious sedation through an IV. During the procedure, you will likely be lying down, although some biopsies are performed while the patient is standing.