Peripheral Arterial Disease

Overview

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) refers to diseases of the blood vessels outside the heart and brain. In patients with PAD, the arteries that carry blood to the arms, legs, stomach or kidneys become narrowed or clogged, interfering with normal blood flow.

Specialists in endovascular surgery at Mayo Clinic offer state-of-the-art diagnosis and comprehensive treatment for patients with peripheral arterial disease. In Mayo's superb facilities, vascular surgeons develop and use new, minimally invasive endovascular procedures that support excellent outcomes and rapid recovery.

In Mayo Clinic's efficient system, endovascular and vascular surgeons work closely with other specialists to provide the most appropriate treatment for patients with peripheral arterial disease.

Mayo's unique team approach provides a comprehensive and coordinated approach to the treatment of peripheral arterial disease. With appropriate medical care and management of risk factors, patients with PAD may significantly reduce their health risks.

Diagnosis

Early symptoms of peripheral arterial disease may include cramping or fatigue in the legs and buttocks during activity. Cramping stops when the activity stops. As PAD progresses, symptoms may include pain in the feet or toes during rest, vascular ulcers and blackened tissue.

The most common cause of peripheral arterial disease is atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). PAD may also be caused by blood clots that lodge in the arteries and restrict blood flow.

At Mayo Clinic, physicians conduct a complete physical examination and medical history for patients with symptoms of peripheral arterial disease. Various tests may also be used to confirm a diagnosis of PAD, including computed tomography angiography (CTA), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and arteriography.

Learn more about diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease.

Treatment Options

At Mayo Clinic, highly skilled and experienced medical experts in vascular diseases work together to provide the best possible treatment for patients with peripheral arterial disease. Patients with PAD benefit from Mayo's state-of-the-art facilities, access to new developments, and opportunities to participate in clinical trials of new techniques, drugs and interventions.

At Mayo, treatment for patients with peripheral arterial disease includes lifestyle changes and possibly medication, endovascular therapy or surgery, and specialized care for vascular ulcers or open wounds.

Learn more about treatment options for peripheral arterial disease.

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About Peripheral Arterial Disease

Peripheral arterial disease is caused by plaque (cholesterol-containing fat) buildups that harden inside the arteries to block and reduce blood flow to the legs, arms, brain and other organs. The blockage often may reduce or stop blood flow to the legs, causing them to hurt or feel numb.

Severe blood flow blockage may cause tissue death. If the condition is left untreated, a foot or leg may need to be amputated (removed). People with peripheral arterial disease are also at high risk for heart attack and stroke.

About 10 million people in the United States are affected by peripheral arterial disease, but only about one in four is diagnosed and receives treatment. The buildup of plaque in the arteries can be reduced with dietary changes, exercise and efforts to lower high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure.

Learn more about peripheral arterial disease at www.MayoClinic.com.