Invision Medical, LCC
Avon, Farmington and Metro-Hartford, Connecticut
Non-Surgical Treatment of
Medical Conditions

Treatment of Peripheral Vascular Disease

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) affects blood vessels outside the heart or brain. In peripheral artery disease (PAD), fatty deposits build up in arteries, restricting the blood flow to the lower limbs, kidneys, or stomach. We use ultrasound, and other procedures, to diagnose patients who may be suffering from peripheral vascular diseases.

Symptoms often include cramping or fatigue, especially in the legs or buttocks. This "intermittent claudication" can be triggered by activity, and may go away upon resting. According to the Society of Interventional Radiology:

"Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), also known as peripheral vascular disease (PVD), is a very common condition affecting 12-20 percent of Americans age 65 and older. PAD develops most commonly as a result of atherosclerosis, or 'hardening of the arteries,' which occurs when cholesterol and scar tissue build up, forming a substance called plaque inside the arteries that narrows and clogs the arteries. This is a very serious condition. The clogged arteries cause decreased blood flow to the legs, which can result in pain when walking, and eventually gangrene and amputation."

Non-surgical treatments often produce excellent results in patients suffering from peripheral vascular diseases. Some patients are counseled to make lifestyle changes to reduce their risk factors. Medication may also help. When measures such as improved diet, exercise and medication are not sufficient, non-surgical procedures such as angioplasty can be employed to open clogged blood vessels.

Recommended Reading

• American Heart Association - PAD Page

Please contact us today to schedule a consultation in our Avon, CT office.