Interventional Radiology:
Peripheral Artery Disease

Blockages in the arteries can occur anywhere in the body and are commonly due to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). The calcified plaque continues to build up until it limits blood flow. The blocked blood flow can result in leg pain, especially while walking, strokes, heart attacks and kidney disease. And if left untreated can result in death usually from a heart attack or stroke.

There are many painless ways to test for PAD and if you are concerned about having PAD you should discuss this with your doctor.

Once blockages are identified small balloons can be inserted through a tiny incision in your leg. These balloons are inflated in the blockage to “flatten out” the blockage so more blood can pass through this area.

If the blockage remains after the balloon treatment a small metal tube called a stent may be inserted to hold the blockage open. The stent acts like scaffolding to keep the vessel open.

The procedure is virtually painless; most people go home the same day or the next day.

For more information about the procedure please contact our Interventional Radiology section at (434) 947-3723