What is a PVD Screening?
Anyone with leg pain symptoms, or leg pain after a brief walk, is encouraged to call for a free PVD screening. The screening takes just a few minutes. It's painless, simple and non-invasive.
During the screening, a cardiac professional measures blood pressure in the arms and compares that to the blood pressure taken at the ankle. The difference between them is calculated and used to determine if there is a reason to suspect a blockage in the peripheral arteries leading to the legs. This is called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). Test results will be sent to your primary care physician.
Depending on the results of the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), more extensive vascular testing may be recommended including
Aortic Scan: The Doppler Test detects the presence of aneurysms that could rupture and be fatal.
Carotid Scan: A painless ultrasound test to detect blockages in your carotid arteries, that could lead to stroke..
Consider this screening annually if:
- Any individual 55 and older
- Have diabetes, hypertension, or uncontrolled high cholesterol (starting no later than age 40)
- Have a family history of heart disease
If potential blockages are found, further testing may be recommended to confirm the presence and degree of blockage detected. A copy of test results is given to the patient or their family physician.
Please contact the locations below for screening dates, screening costs or for more information.
Supervised exercise programs through our Cardiac Rehab program, designed for people with Peripheral Vascular Disease, are also available. The specialized program helps patients with PVD get on the right course toward treating and controlling symptoms, while lowering the risk for future complications.