Peripheral arterial disease - investigations
Investigations for Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) range from simple, non-invasive tests like Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) to more complex imaging modalities such as Duplex Ultrasound, Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA), Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) and Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA). The choice of investigation depends on the clinical suspicion, patient characteristics, and the need for intervention.
Key points
- The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) is a simple and effective screening tool for PAD, but may be unreliable in patients with calcified arteries.
- Duplex ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique useful for evaluating the femoral and popliteal arteries, while CTA and MRA provide detailed anatomical information.
- Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) is the gold standard but is invasive and primarily reserved for cases requiring intervention.