The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) is a measure that a podiatrist may use to screen patients for peripheral artery disease. This simple, fast, and noninvasive assessment involves taking the blood pressures of the ankle and of the upper arm and comparing the two numbers in a ratio called the ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI). In a patient who does not have peripheral artery disease, the blood pressure in the ankle is slightly higher than the blood pressure in the upper arm and the ABPI is in the 0.90-1.29 range. A ratio lower than 0.90 suggests the presence of arterial disease. A ratio of 1.3 or higher is also abnormal and may indicate calcification, hardening, or narrowing of the blood vessel walls. For more information about peripheral artery disease and screening measures, please consult with a podiatrist.

Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Charles Passet, DPM from Forest Hills. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Vascular Testing?

Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.

How Is it Conducted?

Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.

 The most common tests include:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
• Doppler examination
• Pedal pulses

These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.