Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI)

you may need to have an Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) ultrasound scan if you have any of the following: -Symptoms of PAD: Symptoms of PAD can include leg pain, especially when walking or exercising, leg cramps, numbness or tingling in the legs, cold feet, and skin ulcers on the legs or feet. -Risk factors for PAD: Risk factors for PAD include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, age (over 50), obesity, and family history of PAD. -History of heart disease or stroke: People with a history of heart disease or stroke are at increased risk for PAD. -Abnormal blood pressure readings in the legs: If your doctor detects abnormal blood pressure readings in your legs, they may recommend an ABPI ultrasound scan to further assess your circulation.

An Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) test includes the following: • Measuring the blood pressure in both ankles and both arms. • Calculating the ABPI ratio by dividing the ankle blood pressure by the arm blood pressure. • Interpreting the ABPI results to determine if there is any evidence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

he most common findings of an Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) ultrasound scan are: -Normal ABPI: An ABPI of 1.0 or higher is considered normal. This means that the blood flow to the ankles is equal to or greater than the blood flow to the arms. -Abnormal ABPI: An ABPI of less than 0.9 is considered abnormal and may indicate peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD is a condition in which the arteries in the legs become -narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow to the lower extremities. -Severe ABPI: An ABPI of 0.5 or less is considered severe PAD. This means that the blood flow to the ankles is significantly reduced compared to the blood flow to the arms. Other findings that may be seen on an ABPI ultrasound scan include: -Narrowing of the arteries: This can be caused by atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds up on the walls of the arteries. -Blood clots in the arteries: These can block blood flow and lead to tissue damage. -Aneurysms (enlargements) of the arteries: These can weaken the arteries and increase the risk of rupture. -Dissections (tears) of the arteries: These can also block blood flow and lead to tissue damage.

For the Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) Ultrasound Scan, there are generally no specific preparations required. Patients can follow their regular routines, including eating, drinking, and taking medications as usual. The ABPI scan is a non-invasive and painless procedure that does not involve any needles or radiation.

A renal artery stenosis Doppler scan can help to diagnose RAS and to assess its severity. The test can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for RAS.

The following are some of the abnormalities and findings that may be seen on a renal artery stenosis Doppler scan: • Narrowing of the renal arteries • Decreased blood flow in the renal arteries • Turbulence in the blood flow • Blood clots in the renal arteries Aneurysms (enlargements) of the renal arteries

No, neither procedure is painful and does not require needles or radiation.

Generally, no special preparations are required. Patients can continue their regular routines, including eating, drinking, and taking medications.

You will receive your results verbally after the scan. Besides, the practitioner will examine the relevant images after your appointment and prepare a written report after your scan or within 24 hours with any recommended actions.

No, this test is entirely painless and does not involve any needles or radiation.

A low ABPI value may suggest reduced blood flow to the lower limbs, which can be indicative of conditions like Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).