Peripheral Arterial Disease of Lower Extremities, PAD

ABSTRACT

Abstract Peripheral Arterial Disease of Lower Extremities, PAD Burapa                 Kanchanabat                 MD Waigoon               Stapanavatr                  MD Yoothapong         Sangpayup                     MD Pong                     Kanchanasuttirak          MD           Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) commonly affects lower Extremities. The main cause is atherosclerosis. There is no available incidence data in Thai population. It is a major cause of lower limb amputation. PAD could be categorized as chronic arterial occlusion, presenting with chronic ulcer, gangrene or rest pain and acute arterial occlusion which leading to rapid limb loss. PAD is easily diagnosed by history taking, physical examination and measurement of ankle/brachial index (ABI). Treatment options are depends on its severity and the patient's condition. Risk factors modification, antiplatelets, anti-coagulants, thrombolytics and arterial bypass surgery may consider for appropriate patients. Vajira Med J 2007 ; 51 217 - 225