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Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is the most common type of peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and is similar to coronary artery disease. Just like coronary artery disease it occurs as a result of plaque buildup. With PAD the narrowing of blood vessels from plaque occurs in veins and artieres outside of the heart and brain—most common in the legs. Plaque deposits in the vascular system can build up in the arms, abdomen and legs.

If the deposits are severe enough, they can block blood flow, cause ulcers and tissue death. If PAD is left untreated, it can lead to amputation of the foot or leg. PAD is often a sign of narrowed arteries in the heart and brain, which can lead to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke and transient ischemic attacks (a transient stroke lasting a few minutes while blood supply to the brain is briefly interrupted). Early detection for PAD is essential.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD vary, depending on the affected area, but may include:

Cramping or fatigue in the legs while walking.
Non-healing sores on the feet or legs.
Pain in the feet while in bed.
Numbness and tingling.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consult a MemorialCare Physician partner.

Risk Factors

You might be at risk for PAD if you:

Smoke or have been a smoker.
Are diabetic.
Are over the age of 50.
Have high blood pressure (hypertension).
Have high cholesterol.
Are overweight.
Are inactive.
Have a family history of cardiovascular or peripheral vascular disease.

Screenings

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MemorialCare provides low cost, noninvasive vascular screenings to detect PAD.
Peripheral vascular disease screenings

Diagnosis

To diagnose peripheral vascular disease a wide range of tests and procedures can be performed including:

Treatments

The build up of plaque in arteries in the legs can often be halted or even reversed with dietary changes, exercise and efforts to lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure. When caught early, peripheral vascular disease can be successfully treated with less-invasive techniques resulting in shorter hospitalizations, fast healing and rapid recovery.

MemorialCare's expert vascular physicians provide endovascular and surgical treatment for peripheral arterial disease. Physicians also manage stroke prevention, limb salvage and treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms (swelling of the largest artery in the abdomen). Peripheral vascular disease is a manageable condition, but it is important to see a physician to develop a treatment plan.

Lifestyle Changes

Minimally Invasive Interventions

Peripheral Angioplasty & Stent Implants

Surgery