What is Peripheral Artery Disease?
Arizona Endovascular Center Arizona Endovascular Center • March 22, 2024
What causes peripheral artery disease?
Peripheral artery disease (PAD), also referred to as peripheral vascular disease (PVD) or hardening of the arteries, results from the build-up of plaque inside the lining of arteries. Arteries are the high pressure tubes that bring blood from your heart down your legs. Over time, plaque can form on the lining of these blood vessels and lead to blockages or decreased blood flow.
What causes peripheral artery disease?
- Smoking and nicotine use
- Diabetes with high blood sugar, especially in patients who also have high cholesterol
- PAD can be more prevalent the older we get
- Elevated blood pressure, also called hypertension
- Genetics can play a role as well! If your family members have had issues with atherosclerosis (PAD) you are more likely to as well
Several factors are considered to increase the risk of developing PAD; they include family history of heart attacks or strokes, increased age (>50 years), overweight, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and past history of coronary heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
What are the symptoms of peripheral artery disease?
PVD in the legs is characterized by two primary symptoms:
- Claudication
- Claudication literally means “to limp”. It is most commonly described as a dull, cramping type of pain in the calf muscles, thighs or hips. The pain appears while walking or climbing up the stairs and goes away after rest, but slowly with time, they may appear quickly with little exercise and feeling of numbness is also felt in the feet during rest.
- Critical Limb Ischemia
- This presents as pain in your legs even without walking or exercise. This is a symptom of advanced peripheral artery disease and occurs due to the lack of oxygen to your legs when at rest. Leg ischemia is also associated with sores or wounds on the feet or legs that do not heal or heal slowly.
How is peripheral artery disease diagnosed?
When you present to your vascular surgeon’s office with any of these symptoms, your doctor will perform a thorough examination of your medical and family histories and conduct a physical examination including checking for weak or absent pulses. Your doctor may order some of the following diagnostic tests to confirm PAD:
- Ankle-brachial index (ABI): compares the blood pressure of your ankle to the blood pressure in the arm (they should be the same!).
- Doppler ultrasound: checks for a blocked artery, where blood flow through the artery is determined. It also helps in determining the severity of PVD.
- Treadmill test: selectively used to determine the severity of symptoms and monitors the level of exercise that elicits the symptoms
- CT Angiogram (CTA): A special type of cat scan that can provide a detailed image of the arteries anywhere in the body. It can detect the location of the blockage in a blood vessel.
How is peripheral artery disease treated?
Vascular Surgery is the only specialty that is uniquely qualified to provide all treatment options for peripheral arterial disease. At Arizona Endovascular Center you will be seen and evaluated by only board-certified vascular surgeons.
Based on these diagnostic tests, your vascular surgeon will plan the best treatment for your condition. The goals of PVD treatment are to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life and to prevent complications. The treatment for PVD includes lifestyle changes, medical management, endovascular treatment or surgery.
- Lifestyle changes
- Your surgeon will encourage you to quit smoking. Smoking increases your risk of PAD by four times! Walk regularly and be physically active. Get your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar level monitored regularly to avoid the risk of stroke, heart diseases and death.
- Endovascular Procedures
- Angiogram: Angiogram is both diagnostic and therapeutic. Your surgeon will use contrast dye (often less than a CT scan) to determine precisely where your disease is. They utilize multiple different methods to restore blood flow. These include angioplasty, atherectomy, or stenting. Angioplasty is a procedure performed to restore blood flow through a blocked artery. It involves the passage of a catheter with a deflated balloon at its tip into a blocked artery. The balloon is then inflated to displace the plaque outwards. This restores the blood flow by widening the artery. Atherectomy is a procedure in which a catheter with a small cutting device is passed into the blocked artery. This device breaks up the plaque into bits, which are washed away with the bloodstream or through the catheter. In addition, a stent may be placed in the artery to keep it open after angioplasty is done. This procedure is typically done as an outpatient.
- Surgery
- Bypass grafting: This surgery is performed when the blood flow to your leg is totally blocked and is not amenable to endovascular intervention. In this procedure, a graft is placed to bypass the blood flow around the blockage. This surgery is exclusively performed by vascular surgeons.
Preventing blood clots is essential for maintaining good vascular health and avoiding complications such as DVT and PE. Fortunately, there are simple lifestyle changes you can adopt to lower your risk. Stay Active: Regular movement helps keep blood flowing and prevents clot formation. If you have a sedentary job, take breaks to stretch and walk. Maintain a Healthy Diet : Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants to support circulation and overall heart health. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration helps maintain optimal blood viscosity and reduces the risk of clot formation. Know Your Risk Factors: If you have a history of DVT, are pregnant, or have underlying health conditions, consult with a specialist to develop a personalized prevention plan. Arizona Endovascular Center is here to help you take proactive steps to reduce your risk of blood clots and improve your vascular health.
A pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot, usually from a deep vein in the leg, travels to the lungs and blocks blood flow. PE is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
There are a few simple ways to choose the right local vascular clinic for your needs. Keep reading or contact us today to learn more.
At Arizona EndoVascular Center, we believe that the heart and blood vessels are intricately connected, with one’s vascular health directly impacting heart health. Understanding the vital relationship between these systems is essential to maintaining overall well-being. The circulatory system comprises the heart, arteries, veins, and capillaries. When your blood vessels are compromised by conditions such as atherosclerosis (plaque buildup), varicose veins , or other vascular diseases, the heart works harder to circulate blood throughout the body. Over time, this can lead to heart failure, strokes, or heart attacks. Key factors that affect both heart and vascular health include high blood pressure, smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, and diabetes. These risk factors can damage blood vessels, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Taking proactive steps to maintain your vascular health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine checkups can help prevent complications and promote heart health. Regular screenings at Arizona EndoVascular Center can catch early signs of vascular issues before they worsen, ensuring that both your heart and vascular systems stay in top condition.
As the temperatures drop, those with varicose veins may notice an increase in discomfort. Cold weather can exacerbate symptoms, but there are steps you can take to manage varicose veins and reduce symptoms. Here’s how to manage varicose veins during colder months: Layer Up – While staying warm is important, be mindful of wearing tight clothing that can restrict blood flow. Opt for loose, comfortable layers that allow circulation to move freely. Keep Moving – Cold weather can make people want to stay indoors, but regular movement is crucial for promoting good circulation. Aim for gentle exercises like walking or stretching to keep blood flowing to your legs. Use Compression Stockings – These special stockings provide gentle pressure to support the veins and improve circulation, helping to reduce swelling and discomfort in cold weather. Moisturize – Cold, dry air can irritate the skin around your veins. Regularly moisturizing your skin can reduce dryness and improve comfort. Elevate Your Legs – If you’re spending time inside, take breaks to elevate your legs above your heart to reduce swelling and promote better circulation. If cold weather is causing significant discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to Arizona EndoVascular Center for advice on more advanced treatment options to alleviate symptoms.
Arizona Endovascular Center, led by Dr. Sara McKeever, proudly announces the successful implantation of Abbott’s Esprit™ BTK Everolimus Eluting Resorbable Scaffold System (Esprit™ BTK System) , a groundbreaking dissolvable stent designed for patients suffering from chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) below-the-knee (BTK). Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in April 2024, the Esprit BTK System offers new hope for individuals facing the most severe form of peripheral artery disease (PAD). The Esprit BTK System is an innovative bioresorbable scaffold designed to support the artery during the critical healing process. It delivers the drug everolimus to aid vessel healing before gradually dissolving, leaving behind a naturally functioning artery. Composed of materials similar to dissolving sutures, the scaffold is implanted through a minimally invasive, catheter-based procedure. It provides crucial support to the artery until it can maintain its own structural integrity. “The FDA’s approval of the Esprit BTK System represents a significant advancement in below-the-knee therapy,” said Dr. Sara McKeever . “This new treatment option not only supports healing but also reduces the risk of long-term complications. We are excited to offer our patients the latest technological innovations to address chronic limb-threatening ischemia and improve their quality of life.” Chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) is a severe form of PAD that occurs when arteries become obstructed with plaque, preventing adequate blood flow and oxygen from reaching the lower leg and foot. PAD affects over 20 million people in the U.S., yet only 10% of cases are diagnosed. The disease disproportionately impacts Black and Hispanic communities, with nearly 1 in 3 Black adults and 1 in 5 Hispanic adults developing PAD. Arizona Endovascular Center remains committed to pioneering advanced treatments for PAD and improving patient outcomes with state-of-the-art technology like the Esprit BTK System.
In this article, we discuss how vascular clinics treat varicose veins. Read on to learn more about this interesting and helpful topic.
Dealing with vascular issues often requires specialized medical attention. Let's explore the factors determining whether vascular surgery is right for you.
Living with varicose veins can be painful and frustrating, affecting both our physical comfort and our self-confidence. Fortunately, modern medicine offers effective treatments for these vein issues , but the key to successful treatment lies in choosing the right healthcare professional. When it comes to addressing vein problems, opting for a vascular surgeon can make all the difference. Here's why: Specialized Expertise: Vascular surgeons are specialists with extensive training and expertise in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the blood vessels, including veins. Their focused knowledge allows them to accurately assess your vein issues and provide targeted treatment strategies. Comprehensive Evaluation: Vascular surgeons approach vein treatment with a thorough understanding of the entire vascular system. When you consult with a vascular surgeon, they will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to not only address your immediate vein concerns but also consider any underlying vascular conditions that may contribute to your symptoms. Tailored Treatment Plans : Vein problems vary from person to person, requiring personalized treatment approaches. Vascular surgeons excel in creating customized treatment plans that address your unique needs and preferences. Whether you require minimally invasive procedures like sclerotherapy or vein ablation or more complex interventions, a vascular surgeon can tailor a plan that suits you best. Advanced Techniques: Vascular surgeons are at the forefront of minimally invasive techniques for vein treatment. These innovative approaches offer numerous benefits, including reduced recovery times, minimal scarring, and lower risks of complications. By choosing a vascular surgeon, you can access the latest advancements in vein treatment technology for optimal results. Long-Term Care : Vein treatment doesn't end with the procedure itself. Follow-up care is crucial for monitoring your progress and ensuring the effectiveness of treatment. Vascular surgeons are committed to providing comprehensive, long-term care to their patients, offering support and guidance throughout the recovery process. Peace of Mind: Entrusting your vein treatment to a vascular surgeon provides peace of mind knowing that you are in the hands of a skilled and experienced specialist. Vascular surgeons adhere to stringent standards of patient care and safety, prioritizing your well-being at every step of the treatment journey. Don't let varicose veins hold you back any longer. Take the first step towards healthier veins by scheduling a consultation with experienced vascular surgeons. Our team at Arizona Endovascular Center specializes in diagnosing and treating vascular diseases, including abdominal aortic disease, renal arterial disease, and carotid arterial disease. With state-of-the-art technology and personalized care, we're dedicated to helping you achieve optimal vascular health and preventing the possibility of strokes or aneurysms. Make your appointment today and start your journey towards healthier, happier veins. Your vascular health matters, and we're here to help you every step of the way.
Arizona EndoVascular Center is proud to offer PTAB with the DETOUR System, an alternative to current treatment options for complex PAD.