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Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a condition that affects millions of Americans. It occurs when fatty deposits build up in the arteries of your legs, causing them to narrow and restrict blood flow. This reduced blood flow can lead to pain, cramping, and even tissue death in severe cases.
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Symptoms of PAD:

  • Leg pain: The most common symptom is claudication, a cramping or aching pain in your legs that occurs with activity (like walking) and improves with rest.
  • Numbness or weakness in the legs: You may experience a feeling of heaviness or weakness in your legs, especially when walking.
  • Slow-healing sores or ulcers: Open sores on your toes or feet that don’t heal well can be a sign of PAD.
  • Coldness in the legs or feet: One leg may feel colder than the other.
  • Changes in skin color: Your legs or feet may appear pale or discolored.
  • Reduced hair growth: You may notice less hair growth on your legs and feet.

Sound Familiar?

Take Our Quiz To See If You’re At Risk
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Risk Factors for PAD:

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Smoking:

Smoking is the leading risk factor for PAD.

N

Diabetes:

People with diabetes are more likely to develop PAD.

N

High blood pressure:

Uncontrolled high blood pressure can contribute to PAD.

N

High cholesterol:

High levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol can increase your risk of PAD.

N

Family history:

If a close family member has PAD, you’re at a higher risk.

N

Age:

PAD becomes more common as you age.

Treatment Options for PAD:

There are several treatment options available for PAD, depending on the severity of your condition. Here’s an overview:

  • Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet are essential to manage PAD and prevent further complications.
  • Medications: Medications can help control cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes, which can improve blood flow.
  • Angioplasty and Stenting: Interventional radiologists perform this minimally invasive procedure to open narrowed arteries. A small balloon is inserted and inflated to widen the blockage, and a stent may be placed to keep the artery open.
  • Bypass surgery: In more severe cases, a surgeon may create a bypass using a vein from another part of your body to detour the blocked artery and restore blood flow.

Interventional Radiology for PAD:

Interventional radiologists are highly trained physicians who specialize in minimally invasive procedures. They can diagnose PAD using advanced imaging techniques like angiography and offer treatment options like angioplasty and stenting. These minimally invasive procedures offer several advantages over traditional surgery, including:
  • Smaller incisions: This leads to less pain and a faster recovery time.
  • Reduced risk of complications: Minimally invasive procedures carry a lower risk of bleeding and infection compared to open surgery.
  • Faster recovery: You can often go home the same day or the day after the procedure.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of PAD, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications, such as amputation. As an interventional radiologist, I am here to offer a minimally invasive approach to improve your circulation and quality of life.