Dr. Anker's article was published in Generations magazine!
Peripheral Artery Disease or PAD is a common cause of leg pain or poorly healing leg wounds. It is frequently associated with other medical problems, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. It occurs in people with a family history of PAD or those who are current or previous cigarette smokers. PAD, also called arteriosclerosis, develops when the lower extremity arteries become narrowed by the accumulation of a fatty, hardened substance called plaque. The leg pain associated with PAD, called claudication, occurs after walking short or moderate distances. The pain may also be present at rest. Some people experience coolness, numbness, fatigue or discoloration in their legs. PAD may also cause non-healing ulcers and, in its more severe form, gangrene of the lower extremities.
Diagnosing PAD is straightforward. Vascular sonograms examine the leg arteries and accurately provide a road map of any narrowing. Many people can then be treated with lifestyle modifications, such as decreasing fatty food intake, cessation of smoking, and getting regular exercise.
Minimally invasive techniques are available to correct the blockages related to PAD. These procedures are performed through a small puncture in the groin, using local anesthesia. They include atherectomy (motorized plaque removal), balloon angioplasty and stent placement.
If you suffer from leg pain or fatigue, coolness, discoloration, or non-healing wounds you may have PAD. You should be evaluated by a vascular surgeon. You may then be a candidate for a minimally invasive procedure performed right in the office under local anesthesia.
To schedule your consultation and PAD evaluation, call 631-422-0909.