So you just learned that you have peripheral artery disease, or PAD. You are not alone – one in every 20 Americans over age 50 has PAD. A common question patients ask is, “What kind of doctor is the best and most qualified to treat PAD?”
For those whose PAD is diagnosed early, certain lifestyle changes including quitting smoking, getting regular exercise, weight loss, and controlling your cholesterol might be able to improve the condition. However, if your disease is further along, there are more aggressive types of treatment that can help improve the blood flow to your legs. These treatments can also prevent the need for even more aggressive intervention later on, and keep you on your feet. In this article, the best interventional radiology specialists at CiC are here to help explain what you should be looking for in a doctor.
You need to look for an Interventional Radiology Endovascular Specialist
Interventional Radiology Endovascular Specialists perform endovascular (inside the blood vessels) surgery. They conduct surgery using minimally invasive procedures that don’t require incisions, anesthesia, or hospitalization. The procedures are usually performed via a simple needle puncture, in which a tiny, highly specialized catheter or device is inserted into the arteries themselves. The catheter is then guided precisely to the exact site of the blockages using medical imaging technologies such as fluoroscopy. Then, common procedures are used to either remove the plaque (atherectomy) or push the plaque buildup against the artery wall, thus expanding the artery (balloon angioplasty).
These interventional radiology procedures are safer than invasive surgery. They can also be convenient, because they can be performed in the doctors’ offices, and don’t require hospitalization – although they can also be performed in hospitals by IR physicians when needed. The procedures themselves also tend to lead to better outcomes for the patients. In fact, they significantly reduce or eliminate the symptoms of PAD.
So as you can see, there are different approaches to treating PAD. The one you choose should be based on the severity of your symptoms and a qualified specialist’s assessment of what the most appropriate treatment is for you. The results of the treatment will affect how healthy you can be and also how satisfied you’ll be with your care. So if you would like to know more about peripheral arterial disease treatment in Arizona, we can help. To learn more about PAD treatment call Comprehensive Interventional Care Centers at 888-377-7122 or go online to schedule an appointment. Our talented team of PAD experts are happy to answer all of your questions!