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Peripheral Artery Disease Screening

PAD screening with the ankle-brachial pressure index.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Peripheral Artery Disease Screening?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is atherosclerotic occlusion of the lower extremity arteries. An ankle-brachial index (ABI) <0.9 establishes the diagnosis of PAD. Patients with PAD have a 3-6 fold increased risk of coronary and cerebrovascular disease.

ABI measurement is a simple, inexpensive, non-invasive screening test. Diabetes and advanced age may falsely elevate the ABI due to peripheral arterial calcification; in this case, the toe-brachial index (TBI) is preferred.

Symptoms

Intermittent claudication (leg pain on walking, relieved by rest)
Rest pain (in critical ischemia)
Non-healing wound (on the foot or leg)
Cold feet and weak pulses
Trophic skin changes (loss of hair, shiny skin)

Risk Factors

Smoking (the strongest risk factor)
Diabetes mellitus
Hypertension
Hyperlipidemia
Chronic kidney disease
History of coronary artery disease

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Complaint of leg pain on walking (claudication)
  • Over 65 years or over 50 years + smoking/diabetes
  • Non-healing wound on the foot or leg
  • When pulses are absent in the foot

Treatment Methods

01
ABI measurement (screening and diagnosis)
02
Smoking cessation (the most effective modifiable risk factor)
03
Exercise program (30-45 min walking, 3 times/week, 12 weeks)
04
Antiplatelet therapy (aspirin or clopidogrel)
05
Statin therapy (in all PAD patients)
06
Revascularization (in lifestyle-limiting claudication or critical ischemia)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.