What Is Peripheral Vascular Disease?
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) refers to the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels outside the heart and brain, often due to atherosclerosis. This condition restricts blood flow, primarily affecting the arteries supplying the legs and feet. Symptoms can include pain, cramping, or fatigue in the legs while walking or exercising, which typically improves with rest.
PVD increases the risk of serious complications like non-healing wounds, infections, and, in severe cases, gangrene, which may necessitate amputation. It is often associated with other cardiovascular conditions, such as coronary artery disease and stroke. Early detection and management through lifestyle changes, medications, and noninvasive procedures are crucial to improve outcomes and prevent complications.
Conditions Non-Invasive Peripheral Vascular Cardiology Treats
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Narrowing or blockage of arteries in the legs and arms.
- Carotid Artery Disease: Narrowing of the carotid arteries, which can lead to strokes.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Blood clots in deep veins, usually in the legs.
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency: Poor blood flow in the veins of the legs, leading to swelling and ulcers.
- Varicose Veins: Swollen, twisted veins visible under the skin, often in the legs.
- Renal Artery Stenosis: Narrowing of the arteries that supply the kidneys, which can affect kidney function.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): Enlargement of the abdominal aorta that can rupture if untreated.
- Raynaud’s Disease: A condition where blood flow to the fingers and toes is reduced, usually in response to cold or stress.
- Buerger’s Disease: Inflammation and thrombosis in small and medium-sized blood vessels, typically in the limbs.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Compression of blood vessels or nerves in the space between the collarbone and first rib.
- Lymphedema: Swelling due to a blockage in the lymphatic system, often in the arms or legs.
Non-Invasive Peripheral Vascular Procedures
- Carotid Duplex Doppler: Evaluates blood flow in the carotid arteries to detect blockages or narrowing.
- Lower Extremity Duplex Doppler: Assesses blood flow in the arteries and veins of the legs.
- Upper Extremity Duplex Doppler: Examines blood flow in the arteries and veins of the arms.
- Segmental pressures/pulse volume recording: Measures blood pressure at various points along the legs to identify blockages.
- Aorta Ultrasound and Doppler: Visualizes the aorta and measures blood flow to detect aneurysms or blockages.
- Abdominal Ultrasound and Doppler: Evaluates blood flow in the abdominal organs and vessels.
- Thoracic Ultrasound and Doppler: Assesses blood flow in the thoracic vessels and structures.
- Venous Duplex with Maneuvers, Lower Extremity: Examines leg veins for blood clots or insufficiencies.
- Venous Duplex with Maneuvers, Upper Extremity: Evaluates arm veins for blood clots or insufficiencies.
- Ileofemoral Ultrasound and Doppler: Visualizes the iliac and femoral arteries to assess blood flow and detect blockages.
- Transcranial Duplex Doppler: Measures blood flow in the brain's major arteries.
- Ankle Brachial Indexing (ABI): Compares blood pressure in the ankle and arm to screen for peripheral artery disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Schedule Your Appointment
Give us a call at (877) 430-7337 to meet with our cardiology specialists.