Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a condition where plaque buildup in the arteries reduces blood flow to your limbs. This can cause pain, cramping, and difficulty walking. PAD is serious and can lead to complications like sores, infections, or even amputation. Fortunately, advanced treatments like angioplasty can significantly improve blood flow, restore mobility, and enhance quality of life.

What is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

PAD occurs when fatty deposits called plaque accumulate in the arteries that carry blood to your legs or arms. This narrows the arteries, restricting blood flow. PAD often starts silently but can progress to symptoms such as:

• Leg pain while walking (claudication)
• Coldness or discoloration in your legs
• Wounds on your feet or legs that don’t heal

If left untreated, PAD can lead to severe complications, including gangrene or limb loss.

How Angioplasty Works

Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure to open blocked arteries and restore blood flow. Here’s how it’s done:

1. A small tube, or catheter, is inserted into the blocked artery.
2. A tiny balloon at the catheter’s tip is inflated to push the plaque against the artery walls.
3. A stent (a small mesh tube) may be placed to keep the artery open.

The procedure typically takes 30–90 minutes and is often done on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day.

Who Should Consider Angioplasty?

Angioplasty is recommended for PAD patients whose symptoms don’t improve with lifestyle changes or medications. You might be a candidate if you experience:

• Severe leg pain that limits daily activities
• Non-healing wounds on your feet or legs
• Persistent numbness or coldness in your limbs

Advanced Vascular and Vein Clinic specializes in angioplasty and other limb-preserving surgeries, helping patients regain their mobility.

Benefits of Angioplasty for PAD

Angioplasty offers several advantages:

• Improved Mobility: Many patients experience less pain and greater ease in walking.
• Quick Recovery: Unlike traditional surgeries, angioplasty requires less downtime.
• Reduced Risk of Amputation: Restoring blood flow helps prevent severe complications.

At our clinic, we use the latest techniques to ensure safe and effective outcomes.

Additional Treatment Options for PAD

While angioplasty is highly effective, other treatments may also help manage PAD:

1. Lifestyle Changes
   • Quit smoking to protect your arteries.
   • Exercise regularly to improve blood flow.
   • Eat a heart-healthy diet low in fats and sugars.
2. Medications
   • Blood thinners to prevent clots.
   • Cholesterol-lowering drugs to reduce plaque buildup.
3. Bypass Surgery
   • For severe cases, bypass surgery may be needed to create an alternative blood flow route around the blockage.

Preventing PAD

Preventing PAD involves taking care of your overall vascular health. Here are some tips:

• Stay Active: Walk or cycle regularly to keep your arteries healthy.
• Eat Right: Focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Manage Conditions: Keep diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol under control.
• Regular Checkups: Routine screenings can catch PAD early and prevent complications.

Conclusion

Peripheral Artery Disease can limit your mobility and affect your quality of life. However, with angioplasty and proper care, you can regain independence and reduce the risk of serious complications. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of PAD, contact Advanced Vascular and Vein Clinic to learn about your treatment options and take the first step toward better health.