What are the tests for peripheral arterial disease?

Arterial Doppler: The most common test to order when evaluating for pad is an arterial doppler which will detect the flow of blood in the lower extremity. Once this is completed is can help determine what other tests if any need to be ordered.

Symptoms are the key: Changes in blood flow can be detected with an arterial doppler, ultrasound, MRI and even ct. However, just because there is narrowing of the arteries detecetd on these tests does not mean pad exists. Pad means that there is pain, ulcers, loss of function or gangrene due to poor arterial flow. They are related but having poor arteries does not guarantee pad symptoms...Fortunately.

Many tests: Doctor will usually start with ultrasound-ankle brachial index followed by segmental pressures, then maybe a cta/mra, with the last test an angiogram. The doctor wlll also test for htn, high lipids, diabetes, smoking, inactive lifestyle, and other risk factors.

Tests: Typically a screening test is an ABI (ankle brachial index). Follow up tests are typically a duplex ultrasound of your leg. Depending on these results you may require further evaluation with a CTA , MRA or angiography