Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Screening
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a worryingly common circulatory condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when there is arterial blockage inhibiting the blood supply to the limbs, typically the legs.
PAD can result in profoundly serious complications, including pain, reduced mobility, and a heightened risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Because PAD often develops gradually, it can go unnoticed in its initial stages. However, early detection is crucial as it allows for timely treatment and management of the condition.
Early detection of PAD through screening offers several benefits. Sufficiently early diagnosis enables healthcare providers to administer treatment before it progresses to advanced stages, decreasing the risk of severe complications and potentially minimizing the need for invasive treatments that require lengthy recovery times and monitoring.
Testing for PAD might involve multiple diagnostic tools and techniques. At Texas Endovascular, we employ the following PAD screening approaches:
Computed Tomography (CT) Angiogram
Computed Tomography (CT) angiography has established itself as a valuable tool for screening and diagnosing PAD due to its non-invasive nature and ability to provide detailed images of the blood vessels. It is a specialized imaging technique that combines a series of X-ray images with computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the blood vessels.
The procedure involves injecting a contrast dye into the patient's bloodstream, which helps to visualize the blood vessels more clearly. The CT scanner rotates around the patient, capturing multiple images from different angles. The computer reconstructs these images to create a three-dimensional view of the arterial system, allowing for accurate assessment and diagnosis of PAD.
Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)
One of the primary screening tools physicians use is the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), a non-invasive and reliable test. It is a simple and painless test used to measure the blood flow in the lower extremities.
ABI testing compares the blood pressure in the ankle with that in the arm. The ABI is obtained by dividing the ankle's systolic blood pressure by the arm's. A normal ABI is typically between 0.9 and 1.3.
Ultrasound Artery Evaluation
Ultrasound imaging is a valuable tool for screening and diagnosing PAD due to its non-invasive nature and high accuracy.
Ultrasound imaging, or duplex ultrasonography, is a non-invasive and painless procedure to evaluate blood flow through the arteries and veins. It employs high-frequency sound waves to create images of blood vessels, allowing the physician to assess their structure and function. Ultrasound imaging is widely used for PAD screening due to its accessibility, safety, and accuracy.
Advanced PAD Screening Technology
Computed tomography (CT), angiography, ankle-brachial index (ABI) testing, and ultrasound imaging have established themselves as superior screening tools for PAD. These non-invasive diagnostic techniques offer several advantages over traditional methods, making them highly effective in detecting and evaluating PAD.
The non-invasive nature of these screening tools is a significant advantage. Unlike invasive procedures that may carry risks and discomfort, CT angiography, ABI testing, and ultrasound imaging are safe and well-tolerated by patients.
Furthermore, the advanced image capture technology employed by these screening tools enhances diagnostic accuracy. The high-resolution images generated by CT angiography and ultrasound imaging allow healthcare professionals to evaluate the condition of the arteries and identify any abnormalities with great precision. This detailed information aids in the formulation of appropriate PAD treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.
Advanced PAD Screening at Texas Endovascular
Texas Endovascular is a leading provider of advanced diagnostic solutions for early detection of peripheral artery disease (PAD). With a commitment to utilizing next-generation technology, Texas Endovascular offers state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and procedures to identify and manage PAD effectively.
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms such as leg pain, numbness, or non-healing wounds, it is advisable to contact a vein specialist in Houston or Dallas promptly. Contact Texas Endovascular today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward early detection.
