In some cases, blood flow is completely blocked. The legs and feet are often the first areas to be affected, although some patients may have a stroke or mini-strokes from blockages in the carotid artery in the neck. Vascular disease is a slow process that can gradually progress over a lifetime. Risk factors include age, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and a history of heart disease. For many, there are no symptoms until the artery has narrowed by 60 percent or more.
Some patients begin to experience excessive tiredness in their legs or leg cramping when they walk.
In later stages of the disease, leg circulation may be so poor that pain occurs in the toes and feet during periods of rest and especially at night. In the most advanced stages, the legs and feet have such severe blockage that the normal growth and repair process is impaired in the extremity. These include noninvasive diagnostic modalities such as ultrasound, spiral CT and magnetic resonance imaging, as well as the talents of a team of very experienced, board-certified interventional radiologists. And, when necessary, we are able to help many patients with carotid surgery and re-vascularization of the lower extremities. Suburban surgeons are experienced in many procedures that can help improve circulation and prevent amputation.