What is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?
Peripheral artery disease (PAD), also known as peripheral arterial disease or peripheral vascular disease (PVD), is a very common condition affecting 20% of Americans 65 and older. PAD develops most commonly as a result of atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, which occurs when cholesterol and scar tissue build up, forming a substance called plaque inside the arteries. This is a very serious condition. The clogged arteries cause decreased blood flow to the legs, which can cause pain when walking, and eventually even lead to gangrene and amputation.
Severe peripheral artery disease can lead to foot sores or wounds on feet that are not healing, which raises the risk for permanent tissue damage and leg amputation or foot amputation. PAD is also considered a risk factor for heart attack and stroke.
How Is Peripheral Artery Disease Treated?
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First line treatments offered by primary care doctors and vascular specialists include stopping smoking, exercise and eating healthy. Just by following a healthy lifestyle, the progression of peripheral arterial disease can be slowed, halted, or even reversed. Exercising conditions the body to overcome the lack of blood flow to the muscles and also increases flow through smaller arteries around the narrowed or blocked segments. Medications that lower blood pressure and cholesterol are one of the first steps in managing peripheral artery disease (PAD). Unfortunately for many patients, medication and lifestyle changes aren't enough, and minimally invasive treatment may be needed.
Angioplasty, Atherectomy and Stenting are minimally invasive treatments for Peripheral Artery Disease that Precision VIR physicians offer to directly increase the flow through the blocked or narrowed part of the artery.
Common Questions About Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Treatment
Success Rates of Treatments?
We use safe, effective procedures with very high success rates. In fact, 90% of patients who undergo our procedures report an improvement of their symptoms.
Will the Procedure Hurt?
Before the procedure, local anesthetic is applied to the area where the catheter will be inserted. Plus, you will be given a sedative to help you relax before the procedure.
How Do I Prepare for Procedures?
We will carefully explain instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. We will also provide you with written instructions.
At Precision VIR, Excellent Patient Care Is Our Passion
Our specialists will take the time to answer your questions about Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) and your treatment options.
Schedule an Appointment
Request an appointment for a Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) evaluation if you're experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Leg pain when walking
- Loss of hair on legs
- Color change in skin of legs or feet
- Aching in feet or toes when resting
- Cold legs or feet
- Sores on legs or feet that won't heal
- Aching in feet or toes when resting
- Leg or hip pain that stops when you cease activity
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Precision VIR serves the DFW area including Dallas, Fort Worth, Carrollton, Richardson, Garland, Mesquite, Highland Park, University Park, Park Cities, Plano, Frisco, Allen, McKinney, Flower Mound, Lewisville, Denton, Arlington, Irving, Grand Prairie and all of North Texas.
Prior to starting any new treatment or questions regarding a medical condition, always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.