Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral arterial (or artery) disease (PAD) is a narrowing of the blood vessels outside the heart and brain — most commonly in the arteries of the:
PAD is usually caused by a gradual build-up of plaque within the arteries (atherosclerosis). As the arteries become narrowed, essential blood flow to the limbs and organs is reduced.
PAD affects about 8 million people in the United States.
Complications of PAD
- Reduced blood flow to the affected limbs and organs will damage their function.
- PAD in the legs and feet causes difficulty walking.
- In its most severe forms, PAD can cause painful foot ulcers, infections, and even gangrene.
- People with PAD are also at high risk for heart attack and stroke.
About the Division of Vascular Surgery at UPMC
The Division of Vascular Surgery treats PAD and a full range of vascular-related diseases and conditions.
What distinguishes our program?
- Our vascular surgeons — specialists in minimally invasive therapies for PAD, which they helped pioneer for the entire vascular system.
- Our experience — our experts perform hundreds of procedures every year. UPMC also is a major referral center for patients with complicated conditions or who need additional operations.
- Our coordinated approach — our team of endovascular and vascular surgeons works closely with other specialists to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach to treatment.
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