Peripheral Vascular Disease

When blood vessels outside of the heart and brain, such as arteries and veins in the legs, arms, stomach or kidneys become damaged this is know as peripheral vascular disease (PVD). The leading cause of peripheral vascular disease is from plaque buildup in arteries and veins which narrows blood vessels in the arms, abdomen and legs—known as peripheral artery disease (PAD). Stress, smoking, cold temperatures and working with vibrating machinery can also damage blood vessels and cause peripheral vascular disease.

Conditions associated with peripheral vascular disease include:

• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
• Carotid Artery Disease
• Peripheral Artery Disease
• Varicose Veins

Symptoms

Symptoms of PVD vary, depending on the affected area, but may include:

• Cramping or fatigue in the arms or legs while walking.
• Non-healing sores on the feet or legs.
• Pain in the feet while in bed.
• Numbness and tingling.
• Severe abdominal and/or back pain.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consult a MemorialCare Physician partner.

Risk Factors

You might be at risk for PVD if you:

• Smoke or have been a smoker.
• Are diabetic.
• Are over the age of 50.
• Have high blood pressure (hypertension).
• Have high cholesterol.
• Are overweight.
• Are inactive.
• Have a family history of cardiovascular or peripheral vascular disease.

Screenings

Diagnosis

To diagnose PVD a wide range of tests and procedures can be performed including:

• Abdominal Ultrasound
• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)
• Arterial Duplex Scan
• Carotid Ultrasound
• Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)
• Peripheral Angiography
• Venous Duplex Scan

Treatments

Lifestyle Changes

• If you smoke, quit.
• Regular exercise.
• Control high cholesterol.
• Control high blood pressure.
• Control diabetes.

Minimally Invasive Interventions

• Peripheral Angioplasty & Stent Implants
• Carotid Angiography & Stenting

Surgery

• Peripheral Vascular Surgery
• Carotid Endartectomy Surgery
• Aortic Repair Surgery
• Complex Aneurysm Surgery
• Complex Extracranial Cerebrovascular Surgery
• Complex Renal Vascular Surgery