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.