Detecting Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) via ABI Testing

     Screening for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) using ABI technology provides doctors with a more convenient and efficient way to detect the condition. This method delivers rapid results and does not require fasting from food or water before the examination.

Pulse Wave Velocity ABI Ankle Brachial Index Technology

• Examines arterial blockage and arterial elasticity.
• Can lead to the early detection of other major conditions, such as coronary artery disease and Ischemic Stroke
• Utilizes well-known and reliable technologies in the medical field, namely ABI and PWV (Pulse Wave Velocity), to check all key points of the body simultaneously.
• Aims to detect peripheral arterial occlusion, which is frequently found coexisting with coronary artery disease or ischemic stroke, especially in patients with diabetes, heavy smokers, or those suffering from leg pain.

How ABI Measurement Works

     This measurement is performed by checking the blood pressure at both the ankles and the arms while the patient lies flat. The collected data is then processed to calculate an index ratio between the blood pressure in the arms and legs. This comprehensive calculation is called the Ankle Brachial Index, or ABI. This index accurately evaluates whether the arteries supplying blood to the arms or legs are blocked, as well as the severity of the blockage.

Reasons You Should Undergo an ABI Test

     This test serves as an early-stage screening tool for patients with arterial blockages in their legs. Furthermore, studies show that blockages in leg arteries often coexist with blockages in the arteries supplying the heart and brain. Therefore, an abnormal ABI reading indicates that you may be at a higher risk of developing ischemic heart disease or stroke. Early detection allows for highly effective and less invasive treatment options, such as medical therapy rather than surgical intervention.

How to Interpret ABI Results?

     The normal range for an ABI value is approximately 1.0 to 1.1. An abnormal result occurs when the ABI value falls below 0.9, indicating a blockage in the leg arteries at some location. The lower the index score, the higher the severity of the arterial blockage.

If your score is below 0.9, two key steps will be recommended:

• Consult a vascular specialist for treatment: If the ABI value is severely low, such as below 0.5, it indicates a critical blockage. You will be advised to undergo an angiogram of the leg arteries to pinpoint the exact location of the blockage and effectively plan further treatment.
• Screen for blockages in other major arteries: Arteries that often develop blockages concurrently with leg arteries are those in the heart and brain, which can ultimately lead to Ischemic Heart Disease or paralysis.

Who is at risk for leg artery blockages and should get an ABI test?

     Patients with diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, high blood pressure, heavy smoking habits, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, as well as elderly individuals, should consider undergoing an evaluation with a peripheral vascular circulation screening device, or ABI (Ankle Brachial Index)

ABI screening helps detect other critical conditions, such as coronary artery disease or cerebrovascular narrowing.