Surgeries for Peripheral Vascular Disease
Overview:
Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) refers to the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels outside the heart and brain, primarily affecting the arteries in the legs. It restricts blood flow to the limbs, causing pain, cramping, numbness, and in severe cases, tissue damage. If left untreated, PVD can lead to ulcers, infections, gangrene, and, ultimately, limb amputation.
Common Symptoms:
- Leg pain or cramping (especially during walking or exercise, called claudication)
- Coldness or numbness in the legs or feet
- Wounds on the feet or legs that heal slowly or not at all
- Discoloration of the skin on the legs
- Weak pulse or no pulse in the legs or feet
Risk Factors:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- High cholesterol
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
- Family history of vascular disease
