Peripheral arterial (or artery) disease (PAD) is a narrowing of the blood vessels outside the heart and brain — most commonly in the arteries of the:
PAD is usually caused by a gradual build-up of plaque within the arteries (atherosclerosis). As the arteries become narrowed, essential blood flow to the limbs and organs is reduced.
PAD affects about 8 million people in the United States.
The Division of Vascular Surgery treats PAD and a full range of vascular-related diseases and conditions.
Peripheral arterial (or artery) disease (PAD) can develop over a lifetime with varying symptoms.
Early PAD symptoms include:
The most severe forms of PAD can cause:
Left untreated, the condition may lead to amputation.
In most cases, your doctor can diagnose PAD through a physical exam but can't always measure its severity, especially if you have another condition such as diabetes.
To measure the severity of PAD, your doctor will order noninvasive tests such as:
In some cases, your vascular surgeon may decide to obtain more information through additional tests, including:
Your doctor or nurse will tell you when to expect your test results and will call you when they're available.
The UPMC Division of Vascular Surgery offers a full range of treatment options for perpheral arterial (or artery) disease (PAD). We will work with you to determine which treatment option is right for you.
UPMC's vascular surgeons have participated in several large research studies of stenting and in even more cutting-edge research to treat PAD, including:
Learn more about heart and vascular treatments at UPMC.
Call 412-802-3333 to make an appointment or to refer a patient.
Learn more about PAD symptoms at VascularWeb®, from the Society for Vascular Surgery.
Screening for Vascular Disease is a simple test that could save your life. Learn more about screening for PAD.
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