Clinical Assessment
PAD is a circulation disorder that can affect blood vessels and arteries outside of the heart. Our team provides both non-invasive and invasive treatment options for PAD.
Peripheral artery disease is a disease of the blood vessels outside the heart. This condition is caused by a narrowing of vessels that carry blood away from the heart to other parts of the body. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is often used interchangeably with the term "peripheral vascular disease (PVD)." The term "PAD" is recommended to describe this condition because it includes venous in addition to arterial disorders. PAD stems from structural changes in the blood vessels resulting from fatty buildup in the inner walls of the arteries. These deposits hinder and block normal blood flow.
To diagnose peripheral artery disease (PVD), our team of specialists will do an assessment by asking questions about your symptoms and medical history. If you have peripheral artery disease, the pulse in the affected area may be weak or missing. Diagnosing PAD begins with a medical history and physical exam. Other tests that may be done to diagnose peripheral artery disease include a simple blood test to check for conditions related to PAD such as high cholesterol, high triglycerides and diabetes. Another common test also performed is pain-free noninvasive test called an ankle brachial index (ABI) which compares the blood pressure in your arms and in your legs to look for a decrease in circulation, you may be asked to walk on a treadmill for accuracy. Blood pressure readings may be taken before and immediately after exercising to check the arteries during walking.
