Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
What Is It?
Atherosclerotic narrowing of peripheral arteries (usually lower extremities). Causes claudication (leg pain with walking), rest pain, and in severe cases, critical limb ischemia.
How Is It Diagnosed?
ABI (ankle-brachial index) <=0.9 diagnostic. Duplex ultrasound for anatomy. CT or MR angiography for intervention planning.
How Is It Treated?
Risk factor modification: smoking cessation, statin, antiplatelet (aspirin or clopidogrel), ACE inhibitor. Supervised exercise program. Cilostazol for claudication. Revascularization for critical limb ischemia.
Tests and Imaging Typically Needed
ABI measurement, lipid panel, HbA1c, CBC, BMP, ECG, duplex ultrasound, vascular surgery referral for advanced disease.
Approximate Self-Pay Costs
Office visit: $95-$150. ABI: $100-$200. Duplex ultrasound: $200-$500. Cilostazol: $20-$60/month.