Detecting & Treating PAD

Peripheral Artery Disease is often identified through a review of a patient’s medical history and a physical exam, followed by a simple test called the ankle-brachial index, which compares blood pressure in the arms and legs to detect circulation issues. If PAD is suspected, doctors may use imaging techniques like ultrasound or angiography to pinpoint blockages and assess the severity of the disease. Treatment for Peripheral Artery Disease typically begins with lifestyle modifications such as smoking cessation, regular physical activity, and a heart-healthy diet, and may include medications like antiplatelets, statins, or cilostazol to manage symptoms and reduce cardiovascular risk.^{11, 19}

Risk Factors

PAD is primarily driven by atherosclerosis, with risk factors overlapping those of other vascular diseases. Key contributors include smoking, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and sedentary lifestyle, all of which promote arterial plaque buildup and impaired circulation. Additional risks such as age, genetic predisposition, and certain medical conditions like chronic kidney disease and metabolic syndrome further elevate the likelihood of PAD development.⁴

A multidisciplinary and integrated approach involving the primary care provider, podiatrist and/or wound care, interventional specialist, and other hospital resources provides optimal medical and surgical care. PAD is a manageable condition. When recognized early and appropriately managed by a limb salvage team, complications that can lead to amputation can be minimized.

Early Intervention With The Right Team Is Key

Managing chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) requires a multidisciplinary team because vascular specialists alone cannot address the full spectrum of patient needs. Including podiatry, wound care, endocrinology, and other specialties helps ensure comprehensive treatment of comorbidities and wound healing. These collaborative teams have been shown to improve outcomes and deliver more effective care for patients with CLTI. ²⁹

Economics Of PAD

The total cost of amputation goes far beyond the operating room.

Endovascular therapy offers substantial economic advantages over primary amputation for patients with peripheral artery disease. By restoring blood flow without the need for limb removal, it reduces hospital length of stay, lowers intensive care use, and limits the overall resource burden—while still delivering effective treatment. Even when factoring in the higher upfront cost of devices, the downstream savings from faster recovery, fewer complications, and reduced rehabilitation needs make endovascular intervention a more cost-efficient option for many patients.³⁰

The communities of healthcare professionals involved in the Love Your Limbs™ Campaign are taking steps to redefine what it means to treat PAD. Building greater awareness about PAD requires a united effort. Stand with us to help change lives for millions of patients with PAD.

Are you a referring physician looking to connect your patient with a specialist who can treat PAD? If so, use our physician finder tool to discover PAD specialists in your area. If you’re a physician who’s currently treating PAD, join our community of physicians below. You’ll have access to other specialists in your area who are dedicated to improving the treatment of PAD.