PAD is a life-long disease, and a care team, sometimes referred to as a Limb Salvage team, can help you manage your disease. With communication between specialties and a commitment to treatments, primary care physicians, podiatrists, and interventional specialists work together to close the loop and ensure people living with PAD receive the treatment they need.
Dr. Golzar
Interventional Cardiologist
Chicago, IL
Dr. Golzar
Interventional Cardiologist
Chicago, IL
Because PAD is a progressive disease, early and continued intervention with the right network of collaborating physicians is key. Your physicians will work together to diagnose and treat your PAD. With this approach, you can delay the progression of PAD and lower your risk of amputation.
Primary care physicians assess patient risk factors for PAD including advanced age, diabetes, high blood-pressure, and history of tobacco use are some of the main assessments performed. In addition, they may refer patients to a specialist for further PAD testing.
These physicians may administer tests, such as Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), to detect the presence of PAD. They will also help manage any open wounds or sores and ensure overall foot and leg health.
These specialists can perform advanced diagnostic exams to assess the stage and severity of PAD in order to develop a treatment plan. Additionally, they perform minimally invasive endovascular procedures to restore blood flow and may refer to a surgeon, as needed.
Nursing and hospital staff are involved in all stages of PAD. They may help to identify PAD, help connect patients with specialists, and provide ongoing support for managing PAD.