Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a progressive narrowing of the blood vessels most often caused by atherosclerosis, the collection of plaque or a fatty substance along the inner lining of the artery wall. Over time, this substance hardens and thickens, which may interfere with blood circulation to the arms, legs, stomach and kidneys. Blood circulation to the brain and heart may be reduced, increasing your risk for stroke and heart disease.

While PAD can affect anyone, one of out three diabetics over age 50 has the disease.

If untreated, it may result in severe disability and in serious cases, leg amputation. Up to 70 percent of all limb amputations not caused by trauma are performed on diabetics with severe PAD.

Experts at the UCSF Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Clinic specialize in the diagnosis, management and treatment of PAD. Regular screening and early diagnosis are critical to preventing stroke and heart disease and saving limbs from amputation. Without surgical treatment, patients with advanced PAD could lose a limb within three to four months.

The following risk factors increase your chance of developing PAD:

• Age — men over age 60 and post-menopausal women are at an increased risk
• Diabetes
• Family history
• High blood cholesterol, also known as hypercholesterolemia
• High blood pressure, also known as hypertension
• Smoking

For information or to request an appointment, please call:
Vascular and Endovascular Surgery (415) 353-2357

Audio Interview
Hear Dr. Michael Conte, chief of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, discuss the importance of early diagnosis of peripheral artery disease and the latest treatments.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated April 17, 2009