How Do You Diagnose Lower Extremity Arterial and Venous Disease

A circulation test can provide early diagnosis of lower extremity arterial disease and help prevent serious complications; immediate treatment can improve your ability to walk and even save a limb.

Circulation Test Types

Coastal Vascular Specialists offers all of the latest and most advanced techniques. Call to schedule a consultation to discuss which circulation test will be best for you.

Arterial and Venous Doppler Ultrasound

A Doppler ultrasound circulation test uses sound waves to produce images that highlight blood flow in the arteries and veins. This circulation test detects and evaluates any blockages caused by plaque buildup or Chronic Venous Insufficiency.

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition that occurs when the venous wall and/or valves in the leg veins are not working effectively, making it difficult for blood to return to the heart from the legs.

During the ultrasound, the doctor places a handheld instrument called a transducer on your skin, transmitting sound waves that produce images of the leg’s blood vessels on a monitor. The test can take 30 to 60 minutes and does not cause any pain.

Ankle-Brachial Index or Blood Pressure Testing

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a major public health issue. The Society of Interventional Radiology recommends greater screening efforts through the use of the ankle-brachial index (ABI) test.

The ABI is a simple, painless test that compares the blood pressure reading in the arm and ankle. It is a direct measure of fatty plaque buildup in leg arteries and an indirect gauge of plaque accumulations throughout the entire cardiovascular system.

A special ultrasound stethoscope and regular blood pressure cuff is used to test the blood pressure in your arms and ankles. We compare the two to determine how well your blood is flowing and whether or not further tests are needed.

Atherosclerosis is a systemic disease. Individuals developing plaque in their legs are likely to have plaque building up in the carotid arteries. This can lead to stroke, or the coronary arteries, which can lead to heart attack.

Preventive measures can be taken with early detection of PAD. So it’s very important for individuals to monitor themselves if you are at risk.

An individual with an ABI of 0.3 (high risk) has a two- to three-fold increased risk of five-year cardiovascular death compared to a patient with an ABI of 0.95 (normal or low risk).

CT / CTA

Computed Tomographic (CT) Angiography is non-invasive test uses X-ray and contrast agent (dye) to create pictures of blood vessels in the arteries in your abdomen, pelvis and legs.

This test is particularly useful in patients with pacemakers or stents. This painless test typically takes 10 to 15 minutes to complete.

Angiogram

A peripheral angiogram is a test that uses X-rays and contrast dye to help your doctor find narrowed or blocked areas in one or more of the arteries that supply blood to your legs and feet.

Call 727-475-4039 to schedule a consultation

For additional information on angiography, you can visit The American Heart Association.