Alaska Heart & Vascular Institute

Committed to Excellence in Cardiology

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Request Appointment: Anchorage: 907-561-3211
Matsu: 907-761-5470 | Soldotna: 907-564-2300
Electrophysiology (EP): 907-264-5710
Referrals/Scheduling Fax 1-800-537-4124

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Peripheral Arterial Disease

Peripheral ArteryPeripheral arterial disease (PAD) refers to atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries in the circulation “peripheral” to the heart. The relevance of PAD is underscored by its frequency, as much as 15 percent of the population over 65, and its association with coronary and or cerebrovascular disease. Indeed, many studies show that 9 percent of people who have obstructive PAD also have significant coronary or cerebrovascular disease, hence the diagnosis of PAD indicates the need to evaluate for underlying coronary or cerebrovascular disease. Futhermore, early intervention for PAD, coronary and cerebrovascular disease with exercise, diet changes, selective medications and mechanical interventions can improve quality of life and, in select instances, save limb and life.

In general, anyone over 60 who has two or more risk factors for vascular disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, tobacco history, diabetes, family history of cardiovascular disease, vascular disease, or obesity, should undergo PAD screening with an ankle brachial index test (ABI). ABI is a simple office test consisting of measuring the ankle & arm blood pressures using a Doppler Device. Normally, ABI runs 0.91-1.10. An abnormal ABI, that is less than 0.91 suggests the presence of obstructive lower extremity arterial disease and indicates need for additional evaluation and treatment. PAD may result in pain or tightness in the buttock, thigh, or calves, however, commonly people will simply note leg fatigue, loss of balance or even impared sensation in the feet. In any case, much can be done to improve people’s ability to walk and pursue active livestyles once the diagnosis is made.

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Alaska Heart & Vascular Institute
Committed to Excellence in Cardiology
3841 Piper St.
Anchorage, AK 99508
(907) 561-3211

  • Facebook
  • Home
  • About Us
    • Locations
    • In the Community
    • Our Newsletter
    • Research
    • Media Room
    • Preventative Care
    • Stories from the Heart
    • The Alaska Heart Beat Blog
  • Physicians
    • Cardiologists
    • Advanced Practice Providers
  • Services
    • General Cardiology
    • Diagnostic Testing
    • Interventional Cardiology
    • Heart Rhythm Management
    • Heart Failure
    • Peripheral Arterial Disease
    • Vein Clinic
  • Patients
    • Insurance Information
    • Pay Your Bill Online
    • Appointments
    • Financial Policies
    • Price Transparency
    • For New Patients
    • Referred for Diagnostic
    • Rate Your Visit
    • Suggested Reading
  • Employment
    • Physician Recruitment
  • Surgery Center
    • Patient Rights & Responsibilities
    • Physicians & Staff
    • Patient Privacy
    • Before and After Surgery
    • Quick Facts
    • Contact Information
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