You have undoubtedly  heard about heart disease and the importance of prevention and early detection. Peripheral artery disease (PAD), also called peripheral vascular disease (PVD), is not as familiar a term, yet it affects 8-12 million individuals in the United States. Vascular disease (also known as atherosclerosis) outside the heart is associated with increased prevalence of heart attack and stroke. In addition, abdominal aortic aneurysms pose a risk if undetected.

Learning about PAD diseases could save your life. At Vanderbilt, we are committed to early identification and treatment of those at risk for PAD.

Diagnostic Tests

Your physician may use a variety of techniques to diagnose Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), including:­

Ultrasound
An ultrasound of the leg, abdomen, carotid or renal arteries may be used to identify the blockage and measure the amount of arterial blood flow. This is a non-invasive test that involves placing a painless ultrasound probe on the skin to sense the flow of blood in the artery below.

ABI (Ankle-Brachial Index)
ABI is a non-invasive way to diagnose peripheral artery disease (PAD). Blood pressure measurements are taken in the arms and ankles using a Doppler instrument and a simple blood pressure cuff. The patient may walk briefly on the treadmill and have the readings performed just prior to exercise and immediately after. The blood pressure measurements are often compared and used to determine if a blockage in an artery exists.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI is an imaging technique that uses natural, harmless magnets and radio waves to take remarkably clear pictures of the heart and blood vessels. An MRI scan provides images that assist your physician in diagnosing your condition with increased accuracy to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.

Arteriogram
An arteriogram (also known as an angiogram) uses a catheter and dye (or contrast) to visualize the arteries. The angiogram aids the vascular specialist in identifying the location and severity of blockages in the arteries. With this information, the best treatment options for improving leg circulation can be determined.

CT Angiography
CT angiography uses a contrast material inserted into the IV which then enables the doctor to view the artery.

Treatment Options for PAD

Your physician may prescribe one or more of these treatment options.

Medication
Medication may be used alone or in combination with other treatment options such as surgery or stent. While medications do not eliminate the narrowing of arteries, they can help improve the efficiency of blood flow and reduce symptoms such as chest pain, leg pain, hypertension and risk of heart attack or stroke.
Click here to learn more about heart-related medications. 

Angioplasty
Angioplasty or percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) is a technique used to reduce the narrowing of arteries without surgery. A thin tube (catheter) with a small inflatable balloon on the end is inserted into the artery. Inflation of the balloon tip opens the narrowed artery. The balloon is then deflated and removed from the artery. Frequently, a stent is placed within the artery to keep the artery open for a longer period of time.

Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA) (Surgical Procedure)
While the patient is under anesthesia, an incision is made in the side of the neck, at the location of the blockage (generally just below the jaw line), and into the carotid artery. The plaque and diseased portion of the artery is removed and the artery is sewn back together to allow blood flow to the brain.

Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS)
This is a non-surgical procedure performed in a catheterization laboratory or surgical suite. A small puncture is made in the artery in the groin area where catheters and wires are inserted under specialized X-ray. The catheters and wires are used to place the stents (cylindrical, mesh wire tube) in the carotid artery.