
.	The first sign of a disease to the lower extremity arteries is usually muscle while walking. As the disease progresses, the distance a patient is able to walk is considerably shortened. In the advanced stages of a disease of the lower extremity arteries pain can be identifies also during rest. The most severe cases can lead to gangrene of the toes, foot and even complete loss of the limb

A specialist can identify the problem f blocked arteries even at first examination without the need for further tests, such as blood tests or various analyses. If necessary it is possible to take advantage of Doppler mapping or catheterization.

Treatment during the firsts stages of the disease can be conservative, and may include medication to improve blood flow, and a recommendation for increased activity, in particular walking at least 30 minutes a day. In many cases this reduces the signs of the disease.

In more severe cases of lower limb artery disease, invasive treatment is offered, including angioplasty, and a variety of surgical procedures. In such cases surgical intervention involves by-pass surgery.

Rate of success and adverse effects

The success rate for these procedures depends very much on the condition of the arteries of the lower limbs above and below the damaged area. In the case of a single blocked point the rate of success is far greater than when a chain of blockages is found. And as with any other surgical procedure, there is the risk of bleeding, infection, and nervous damage. In severe cases there is a greater chance of recurrence of the problem in the implant and more serious damage to the limb. Additional diseases, such as coronary or lung diseases increase the risk rates and mortality.

Diseases of lower limbs arteries

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