Expert Treatment of PVD and PAD
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is one of the many vascular conditions diagnosed and treated by the highly skilled doctors at Loyola Medicine. PVD is a slow and progressive circulation disorder caused by plaque building up in your blood vessels (arteries and veins). This plaque buildup is called atherosclerosis, which leads to narrowing and hardening of your arteries, cause low blood flow and injuring your nerves and other connective tissues.
When this condition occurs in the arteries, it is called peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The arteries in the lower limbs are the most common location for PAD to occur. PAD can also affect the arteries of the arms, neck, vessels supplying vital organs, or any other arteries in the body.
The narrow arteries and poor circulation most commonly occur in your legs, but may also be present in arteries that supply blood to your internal organs, resulting in potential risk of premature heart disease, heart attack, angina or stroke.
Why Choose Loyola for Treatment of Peripheral Vascular Disease?
Loyola’s cardiology and heart surgery program is nationally recognized for our diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular conditions. We work with you to help you understand your condition and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
How is Peripheral Vascular Disease Diagnosed?
Doctors at Loyola approach the diagnosis of peripheral vascular disease with great detail and care. Our multidisciplinary team of cardiologists and vascular surgeons are specially trained to recognize the symptoms of peripheral vascular disease, which may include:
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Chronic pain
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Coldness in the legs and feet
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Intermittent claudication (pain caused by too little blood flow)
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Numbness of your extremities
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Rest pain
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Weakness of your calf muscle
In addition to your symptoms, complete medical history and physical exam, your doctor may request the following tests for a definitive diagnosis:
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Ankle-brachial index (ABI)
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Blood lipid test
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CT (computed tomography) angiography
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Doppler ultrasound
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Duplex ultrasound
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MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
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Pulse volume recording
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X-ray
How is Peripheral Vascular Disease Treated?
Loyola offers numerous treatment options for peripheral vascular disease, enabling you to reduce your leg pain and resume normal physical activity. Depending on the severity of your artery blockage, treatment may range from simple lifestyle changes to surgical intervention to clear heart blockage, including:
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Atherectomy
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Coronary bypass surgery
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Lipid management with cholesterol lowering medication
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Peripheral stenting
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Rotablation
Doctors at Loyola will work with you to develop a treatment option that is right for you.
