One of the most common diseases that patients who come to our hospital's cardiovascular surgery outpatient clinic complain about is peripheral artery disease.

What is Peripheral Artery Disease?

It is a disease that causes stenosis and blockage, called atherosclerosis, in vessels other than those feeding the heart. Plaques form in the vessels feeding the arms, legs, brain and internal organs and cause blockage. Bacterial growth in the heart vessels can also occasionally cause peripheral artery damage. These plaques are caused by fat and cholesterol residues, which cause arteriosclerosis. It is more common in men than in women. Hypertension, smoking, diabetes and sedentary lifestyle are among the factors that cause peripheral artery disease. Patients with a family history of peripheral artery problems, over 65 years of age, high blood pressure, chronic kidney failure and weight problems are in the risk group.

Due to the symptoms and pain it presents, it can sometimes be confused with a herniated disc or muscle pain.

What are the Symptoms of Peripheral Artery?

Peripheral artery symptoms vary depending on which vessel is blocked. The most common symptom is difficulty walking and climbing stairs due to blockage in the leg veins. Other symptoms include coldness in the legs, numbness, color change, bruising, pain, wounds and hair loss. Peripheral Artery Diagnosis: Diagnosis is made by pulse examination, physical examination, arm and leg blood pressure measurement and color Doppler ultrasonography or medicated computed tomography methods.

What are Peripheral Artery Treatments?

Medical treatment is started in patients diagnosed with peripheral artery. Surgical interventions are required in cases that cannot be corrected with medication. Treatment of peripheral artery occlusion consists of peripheral angiography, peripheral angioplasty, balloon and stent application, and shaving procedures called aarectomy. Our cardiovascular surgery specialist will apply appropriate diagnostic methods and, if deemed necessary, contact the cardiologist to plan your treatment and assist you.