Peripheral artery disease (PAD) causes fatty plaque to build up in blood vessels in the legs, causing pain and loss of movement. A more severe form, called critical limb ischemia, can lead to severe tissue concerns and possibly the need for amputation.
Our vascular experts conduct a complete evaluation when they suspect PAD. Then we develop a treatment plan that will help ease symptoms and enhance your ability to move around. We offer expert guidance, rehabilitation, medical management, minimally invasive procedures and surgery to treat your condition.
When appropriate, we may recommend minimally invasive treatments. We use the most effective, least invasive procedure possible. Advantages of minimally invasive procedures include:
- Smaller incisions
- Less trauma, blood loss and pain
- Fewer complications
- Shorter hospital stay
- Faster recovery times
Angiograms are minimally invasive and sometimes recommended to determine the exact location of the plaque blocking the flow in the blood vessel. In this procedure, your doctor threads a catheter (thin tube) through the femoral artery in the groin to the location of the plaque. You may also have treatment with angioplasty, stenting or atherectomy at the time of the angiogram.
Angioplasty and stenting are also minimally invasive ways to clear blockages. Your doctor threads a thin, hollow tube called a catheter through an artery to reach the blockage. He or she inflates a balloon on the tip of the catheter to open the blocked artery and may place a stent (small mesh framework) into the artery to keep it open.
Atherectomy is another minimally invasive procedure to remove plaque buildup from inside artery walls using a device to remove the plaque.
PAD and chronic limb ischemia are among the most common reasons for amputation, removing part of the foot or leg.
Our goal is to prevent the need for amputation by detecting and resolving problems early. Working closely with you, our specialists:
- Perform a noninvasive evaluation
- Work with podiatry for proper shoe fitting and shoe recommendations
- Perform minimally invasive angioplasty to reopen blood flow to the foot or route blood flow around a blockage
- Provide wound care to avoid dangerous infections and promote healing
If amputation becomes necessary, we minimize the extent of the procedure when possible. As you heal, our rehabilitation team supports you with physical therapy and prosthetics to restore your quality of life.
Call 1-800-SENTARA (1-800-736-8272) to learn more.