The toe-brachial index in the diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease

The resistive and pulsatility indices of the dorsal metatarsal artery for the screening of peripheral lower artery disease in patients with and without diabetes

BACKGROUND

In lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD), the ankle-brachial index (ABI) is an easily reproducible diagnostic tool for PAD, but it loses reliability when > 1.4 due to calcification of the vessel wall. Patients with diabetes are at higher risk for wall calcification. In order to overcome the limitation and reliability of ABI, particularly in patients with diabetes, we decided to assess resistive (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) by ultrasound doppler of the dorsal metatarsal artery (DMA).

RESULTS

We therefore analyzed 51 legs (32 patients), evaluating the correlation between PI, RI, and ABI. Patients with diabetes were 21 (65.6 %), accounting for 33 legs (64.7 %). Out of 51 legs assessed, 37 (72.5 %) cases had compressible arteries, whereas in 14 legs (27.5 %) ABI was not calculable due to wall calcification. PAD was significantly associated with lower both RI and PI of the DMA (both p < 0.000). RI, but not PI, showed a significant correlation (r = 0.535) with ABI, when ABI was less than 1.4, but not when ABI > 1.4. When analyzed separately, patients with diabetes showed a similar figure in comparison with those without diabetes (r = 0.600), RI, but not PI, showed a significant correlation with ABI.

CONCLUSION

Dorsal metatarsal artery resistive index (MARI) showed a significant inverse correlation with PAD, similarly to ABI, irrespective of the presence of diabetes. MARI seems to be an effective screening tool for PAD even in patients with wall calcification. Further studies are needed for confirming the results of the present pilot study.

2024 ACC/AHA/AACVPR/APMA/ABC/SCAI/SVM/SVN/SVS/SIR/VESS Guideline for the Management of Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2024 ACC/AHA/AACVPR/APMA/ABC/SCAI/SVM/SVN/SVS/SIR/VESS Guideline for the Management of Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease" provides recommendations to guide clinicians in the treatment of patients with lower extremity peripheral artery disease across its multiple clinical presentation subsets (ie, asymptomatic, chronic symptomatic, chronic limb-threatening ischemia, and acute limb ischemia).

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from October 2020 to June 2022, encompassing studies, reviews, and other evidence conducted on human subjects that was published in English from PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, CINHL Complete, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline. Additional relevant studies, published through May 2023 during the peer review process, were also considered by the writing committee and added to the evidence tables where appropriate.

STRUCTURE

Recommendations from the "2016 AHA/ACC Guideline on the Management of Patients With Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease" have been updated with new evidence to guide clinicians. In addition, new recommendations addressing comprehensive care for patients with peripheral artery disease have been developed.

2024 ACC/AHA/AACVPR/APMA/ABC/SCAI/SVM/SVN/SVS/SIR/VESS Guideline for the Management of Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2024 ACC/AHA/AACVPR/APMA/ABC/SCAI/SVM/SVN/SVS/SIR/VESS Guideline for the Management of Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease" provides recommendations to guide clinicians in the treatment of patients with lower extremity peripheral artery disease across its multiple clinical presentation subsets (ie, asymptomatic, chronic symptomatic, chronic limb-threatening ischemia, and acute limb ischemia).

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from October 2020 to June 2022, encompassing studies, reviews, and other evidence conducted on human subjects that was published in English from PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, CINHL Complete, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline. Additional relevant studies, published through May 2023 during the peer review process, were also considered by the writing committee and added to the evidence tables where appropriate.

STRUCTURE

Recommendations from the "2016 AHA/ACC Guideline on the Management of Patients With Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease" have been updated with new evidence to guide clinicians. In addition, new recommendations addressing comprehensive care for patients with peripheral artery disease have been developed.

Intraprocedural application of a peripheral blood flow monitoring system during endovascular treatment for femoropopliteal disease

Sensors that implement laser speckle image streaming provide real-time, noninvasive assessment of peripheral blood flow during endovascular revascularization. This single-center feasibility study evaluated a laser speckle-based peripheral blood flow monitoring system in 24 patients with peripheral arterial disease. System-quantified blood flow values showed improvement at the conclusion of the procedure in 20 of 24 patients (83.3%). Of the four patients without improved flow values, waveform morphology improved in three. Waveforms graded as moderate to severe peripheral arterial disease decreased from 71% before the procedure to 25% after the procedure, with improvement in 19 of 24 patients. In this limited population, laser speckle imaging could offer a highly sensitive method of detecting intraprocedural pedal blood flow changes.

A portable optical pulsatile flowmetry demonstrates strong clinical relevance for diabetic foot perfusion assessment

We present a robust, cost-effective (<2000 USD), and portable optical diffuse speckle pulsatile flowmetry (DSPF) device with a flexible handheld probe for deep tissue blood flow measurement in the human foot as well as a first-in-man observational clinical study using the proposed optical device for tissue ischemia assessment and peripheral artery disease (PAD) diagnosis. Blood flow in tissue is inherently pulsatile in nature. However, most conventional methods cannot measure deep tissue-level pulsatile blood flow noninvasively. The proposed optical device can measure tissue-level pulsatile blood flow ∼6 mm underneath the skin surface. A new quantitative tissue perfusion index (TPIDSPF) based on frequency domain analysis of the pulsatile blood flow waveform is defined to assess tissue ischemia status. Through a clinical study involving 66 subjects, including healthy individuals and diabetes patients with and without PAD, TPIDSPF demonstrated strong correlations of 0.720 with transcutaneous tissue partial oxygen pressure (TcPO2) and 0.652 with toe-brachial index (TBI). Moreover, among the three methods, TPIDSPF demonstrated the highest area under the curve for PAD diagnosis among diabetes patients, with a notable value of 0.941. The promising clinical results suggest that the proposed optical method has the potential to be an effective clinical tool for identifying PAD among the diabetic cohort.

Assessment of diabetic foot ulcers: back to basics

Diabetic foot ulceration affects up to 34% of the global diabetic population as a result of poor glycaemic control. Complications resulting from diabetic foot ulceration can be complex, expensive and challenging. It is important for risk factors to be recognised early and for regular assessment to take place. Streamlining a coordinated approach that enhances communication and guides treatment approaches can help to improve wound outcomes.

A high burden of diabetes and ankle brachial index abnormalities exists in Mexican Americans in South Texas

Ethnic differences exist in the United States in the interrelated problems of diabetes (DM), peripheral arterial disease (PAD), and leg amputations. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factor associations for subclinical PAD in a population sample of Mexican Americans using the ankle brachial (ABI) index. The ABI-High (higher of the two ankle pressures/highest brachial pressure) and ABI-Low (lower of the two ankle pressures/highest brachial pressure) were calculated to define PAD. Toe brachial index (TBI) was also calculated. 746 participants were included with an age of 53.4 ± 0.9 years, 28.3 % had diabetes mellitus (DM), 12.6 % were smokers, and 51.2 % had hypertension (HTN). Using ABI-High ≤ 0.9, the prevalence of PAD was 2.7 %. This rose to 12.7 % when an ABI-Low ≤ 0.9 was used; 4.0 % of the population had an ABI-High > 1.4. The prevalence of TBI < 0.7 was 3.9 %. DM was a significant risk factor for ABI-High ≤ 0.9 and ABI-High > 1.4, and TBI < 0.7. Increased age, HTN, smoking was associated with ABI-High ≤ 0.9, while being male was associated with ABI-High > 1.4. Increased age, smoking, and lower education were all associated with abnormal TBI. Despite relatively younger mean age than other studied Hispanic cohorts, the present population has a high burden of ABI abnormalities. DM was a consistent risk factor for PAD. These abnormalities indicate an important underlying substrate of vascular and metabolic disease that may predispose this population to the development of symptomatic PAD and incident amputations.

Does the advantage of transcutaneous oximetry measurements in diabetic foot ulcer apply equally to free flap reconstruction?

BACKGROUND

Transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcpO₂) is a precise method for determining oxygen perfusion in wounded tissues. The device uses either electrochemical or optical sensors.

AIM

To evaluate the usefulness of TcpO₂ measurements on free flaps (FFs) in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs).

METHODS

TcpO₂ was measured in 17 patients with DFUs who underwent anterolateral thigh (ALT)-FF surgery and compared with 30 patients with DFU without FF surgery.

RESULTS

Significant differences were observed in the ankle-brachial index; duration of diabetes; and haemoglobin, creatinine, and C-reactive protein levels between the two groups. TcpO₂ values were similar between two groups except on postoperative days 30 and 60 when the values in the ALT-FF group remained < 30 mmHg and did not increase > 50 mmHg.

CONCLUSION

Even if the flap is clinically stable, sympathectomy due to adventitia stripping during anastomosis and arteriovenous shunt progression due to diabetic polyneuropathy could lead to low TcpO₂ values in the ALT-FF owing to its thick fat tissues, which is supported by the slow recovery of the sympathetic tone following FF. Therefore, TcpO₂ measurements in patients with DFU who underwent FF reconstruction may be less accurate than in those who did not.

Diagnosis of cardiovascular disease in patients with chronic kidney disease

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cardiovascular death. Identifying and monitoring cardiovascular complications and hypertension is important for managing patients with CKD or kidney failure and transplant recipients. Biomarkers of myocardial ischaemia, such as troponins and electrocardiography (ECG), have limited utility for diagnosing cardiac ischaemia in patients with advanced CKD. Dobutamine stress echocardiography, myocardial perfusion scintigraphy and dipyridamole stress testing can be used to detect coronary disease in these patients. Left ventricular hypertrophy and left ventricular dysfunction can be detected and monitored using various techniques with differing complexity and cost, including ECG, echocardiography, nuclear magnetic resonance, CT and myocardial scintigraphy. Atrial fibrillation and other major arrhythmias are common in all stages of CKD, and ambulatory heart rhythm monitoring enables precise time profiling of these disorders. Screening for cerebrovascular disease is only indicated in asymptomatic patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. Standardized blood pressure is recommended for hypertension diagnosis and treatment monitoring and can be complemented by ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. Judicious use of these diagnostic techniques may assist clinicians in detecting the whole range of cardiovascular alterations in patients with CKD and enable timely treatment of CVD in this high-risk population.

The association of major adverse limb events and combination stent and atherectomy in patients undergoing revascularization for lower extremity peripheral artery disease

BACKGROUND

The effectiveness of combined atherectomy and stenting relative to use of each procedure alone for the treatment of lower extremity peripheral artery disease has not been evaluated.

AIMS

The objective of this study was to evaluate the short- and long-term major adverse limb event (MALE) following the receipt of stenting, atherectomy, and the combination of stent and atherectomy.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of patients undergoing atherectomy, stent, and combination stent atherectomy for lower extremity peripheral artery disease was derived from the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI) data set. The primary outcome was MALE and was assessed in the short-term and long-term. Short-term MALE was assessed immediately following the procedure to discharge and estimated using logistic regression. Long-term MALE was assessed after discharge to end of follow-up and estimated using the Fine-Gray subdistribution hazard model.

RESULTS

Among the 46,108 included patients, 6896 (14.95%) underwent atherectomy alone, 35,774 (77.59%) received a stent, and 3438 (7.5%) underwent a combination of stenting and atherectomy. The adjusted model indicated a significantly higher odds of short-term MALE in the atherectomy group (OR = 1.35; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.16-1.57), and not significantly different odds (OR = 0.93; 95% CI:0.77-1.13) in the combination stent and atherectomy group when compared to stenting alone. With regard to long-term MALE, the model indicated that the likelihood of experiencing the outcome was slightly lower (HR = 0.90; 95% CI:0.82-0.98) in the atherectomy group, and not significantly different (HR = 0.92; 95% CI:0.82-1.04) in the combination stent and atherectomy group when compared to the stent group.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients in the VQI data set who received combination stenting and atherectomy did not experience significantly different rates of MALE when compared with stenting alone. It is crucial to consider and further evaluate the influence of anatomical characteristics on treatment strategies and potential differential effects of comorbidities and other demographic factors on the short and long-term MALE risks.

Sensitivity and Specificity of Pulse Oximetry for Identification of Peripheral Artery Disease: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Lower limb peripheral artery disease (PAD) is associated with poor outcomes including ulceration, gangrene, amputations, and mortality. Clinicians therefore routinely perform point-of-care tests in high-risk populations to identify PAD and subsequently implement cardiovascular management and appropriate interventions. Pulse oximetry has been suggested as a useful adjunct test for identifying PAD.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this systematic review was to determine the sensitivity and specificity of pulse oximetry in the lower limb for identifying PAD.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL were searched up until January 10, 2023, to identify studies of sensitivity and specificity of pulse oximetry that used criterion standard diagnostic imaging as a reference standard. Two authors screened articles for inclusion and appraised quality of included studies using the Quality Appraisal for Diagnostic Accuracy Studies, version 2.

RESULTS

A total of 6371 records were screened, and 4 were included. The included studies had a total of 471 participants, with an age range of 41 to 80.6 years. All studies were cross-sectional and conducted in hospital settings. Sensitivity values for pulse oximetry compared with diagnostic imaging in identifying PAD ranged from 44% to 76%, and specificity values ranged from 85% to 96%. There was no consensus regarding measurement techniques and diagnostic thresholds for pulse oximetry, which precluded meta-analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

There is currently inadequate evidence to support the use of pulse oximetry for identifying PAD. Current evidence suggests that pulse oximetry has low levels of sensitivity and is therefore likely to miss PAD when it is present.

Evaluation of Lower Extremity Calcium Score as a Measure of Peripheral Arterial Disease Burden and Amputation Risk

BACKGROUND

The ankle-brachial pressure index (ABI) and toe-brachial pressure index (TBI) are commonly used diagnostic tools for peripheral artery disease (PAD) that are unreliable in the presence of calcified vessels. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the utility of the lower extremity calcium score (LECS) in addition to ABI and TBI in measuring disease burden and predicting the risk of amputation in patients with PAD.

METHODS

Patients who were evaluated in the vascular surgery clinic at Emory University for PAD and who underwent noncontrast computed tomography of the aorta and lower extremities were included in the study. Aortoiliac, femoral-popliteal, and tibial calcium scores were measured using the Agatston method. ABI and TBI that were obtained within 6 months of the computed tomography scan were noted and divided into categories of PAD severity. Associations between ABI, TBI, and LECS of each anatomic segment were evaluated. Univariate and multivariate ordinal regression analyses were performed to predict the outcome of amputation. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to compare LECS with other variables in its ability to predict amputation.

RESULTS

Fifty patients included in the study cohort were divided into LECS quartiles, with 12-13 patients in each quartile. The highest quartile tended to be older (P = 0.016), had a higher percentage of diabetics (P = 0.034), and had a higher frequency of major amputations (P = 0.004) compared to the other quartiles. Patients in the highest quartile of tibial calcium score were more likely to have stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD) or greater (P = 0.011) and also had a higher frequency of amputation (P < 0.005) and mortality (P = 0.041). We found no significant association between each anatomic LECS and ABI/TBI categories. On univariate analysis, CKD (Odds Ratio [OR] 12.92 (95% CI 2.01 to 82.83), P = 0.007), diabetes mellitus (OR 5.47 (95% CI 1.27 to 23.64), P = 0.023), tibial calcium score (OR 6.62 (95% CI 1.79 to 24.54), P = 0.005), and total bilateral calcium score (OR 6.32 (95% CI 1.18 to 33.78), P = 0.031) were associated with increased risk of amputation. On multivariate stepwise ordinal regression, TBI and tibial calcium score were identified as important predictors of amputation, with hyperlipidemia and CKD increasing the overall prediction of the model. On Receiver operating characteristic analysis, the addition of the tibial calcium score (area under the curve 0.94, standard error 0.048) significantly improved the prediction of amputation compared to hyperlipidemia, CKD, and TBI alone (area under the curve 0.82, standard error 0.071, P = 0.022).

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of tibial calcium score to other known PAD risk factors may improve the prediction of amputation in patients with PAD.

Variability of toe pressures during haemodialysis: comparison of people with and without diabetes; a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Diabetes, end stage renal disease (ESRD), and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) are associated with a higher risk of diabetes-related lower limb amputation. Timely identification of PAD with toe systolic blood pressure (TSBP) and toe-brachial pressure index (TBPI) is critical in order to implement foot protection strategies to prevent foot complications in people with ESRD. There is limited evidence describing the effect of haemodialysis on TSBP and TBPI. This study aimed to determine the variability of TSBP and TBPI during haemodialysis in people with ESRD, and to determine whether any observed variability differed between people with and without diabetes.

METHODS

TSBP and TBPI were taken before dialysis (T1), one hour into dialysis (T2) and in the last 15 min of dialysis (T3) during a single dialysis session. Linear mixed effects models were undertaken to determine the variability in TSBP and TBPI across the three time points and to determine whether this variability differed between people with and without diabetes.

RESULTS

Thirty participants were recruited, including 17 (57%) with diabetes and 13 (43%) with no diabetes. A significant overall reduction in TSBP was observed across all participants (P < 0.001). There was a significant reduction in TSBP between T1 and T2 (P < 0.001) and between T1 and T3 (P < 0.001). There was no significant overall change in TBPI over time (P = 0.62). There was no significant overall difference in TSBP between people with diabetes and people with no diabetes (mean difference [95% CI]: -9.28 [-40.20, 21.64], P = 0.54). There was no significant overall difference in TBPI between people with diabetes and people with no diabetes (mean difference [95% CI]: -0.01 [-0.17, 03.16], P = 0.91).

CONCLUSION

TSBP and TBPI are an essential part of vascular assessment of the lower limb. TBPI remained stable and TSBP significantly reduced during dialysis. Given the frequency and duration of dialysis, clinicians taking toe pressures to screen for PAD should be aware of this reduction and consider how this may have an impact on wound healing capacity and the development of foot related complications.

Associations of habitual alcohol drinking with HDL cholesterol and D-dimer in patients with peripheral arterial disease

BACKGROUND

The risk of cardiovascular disease is lower in light-to-moderate alcohol drinkers than in nondrinkers in the general population. However, it remains to be clarified whether these beneficial effects of alcohol are shown in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

METHODS

The subjects were 153 male outpatients with PAD and they were divided by frequency of drinking into nondrinkers, occasional drinkers (1-4 day/wk) and regular drinkers (5-7 day/wk). Relationships of alcohol drinking with variables related to progression of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk were investigated.

RESULTS

The levels of HDL cholesterol and d-dimer were significantly higher and lower, respectively, in regular drinkers than in nondrinkers, while there were no significant differences in BMI, blood pressure, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, hemoglobin A_1c, platelet count, fibrinogen, ankle brachial index and intima-media thickness of the carotid artery in non-, occasional and regular drinkers. Odds ratios of regular drinkers vs. nondrinkers for low HDL cholesterol (0.24 [0.08∼0.70]) and high d-dimer (0.29 [0.14∼0.61]) were significantly lower than the reference level.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with PAD, habitual alcohol drinking was associated with increase of HDL cholesterol and suppression of blood coagulability. However, progression of atherosclerosis was not different in nondrinkers and drinkers.

Are portable ankle brachial pressure index measurement devices suitable for hypertension screening?

OBJECTIVE

In a large-scale population cardiovascular screening programme, peripheral artery disease (PAD) and hypertension would ideally be rapidly assessed using a single device. The ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) is calculated by comparing the ankle and brachial blood pressure (BP). However, it is currently unclear whether brachial BP measurements provided by automated PAD screening systems are sufficiently accurate for simultaneous hypertension screening.

METHODS

Two portable PAD screening devices, the MESI ABPI MD and Huntleigh's Dopplex ABIlity, were evaluated following the European Society of Hypertension International Protocol (ESH-IP) Revision 2010 using a mercury-free sphygmomanometer as a reference device.

RESULTS

On average, the MESI slightly underestimated brachial systolic blood pressure (BP) with a bias and standard deviation (SD) of -3.5 (SD: 3.3) mmHg and diastolic BP with a bias of -1.5 (SD: 2.3) mmHg. For systolic BP estimates, the Dopplex was more accurate than the MESI with a lower bias of -0.5 (SD: 4.2) mmHg but less precise. The MESI successfully fulfilled all the requirements of the ESH-IP for hypertension screening. The Dopplex device failed the ESH-IP due to the absence of DBP measurements.

CONCLUSIONS

The MESI device appears to be suitable for simultaneous PAD and hypertension screening as part of a preventative care programme. Huntleigh's Dopplex ABIlity failed to pass the ESH-IP validation test. Further clinical trials are underway to assess the use of the MESI for simultaneous screening for hypertension and PAD in a population screening setting.

Peripheral artery disease in patients with schizophrenia as compared to controls

BACKGROUND

Patients with schizophrenia have an increased prevalence of risk factors for peripheral artery disease (PAD) and is expected to have an increased prevalence of PAD. PAD can be detected utilizing toe-brachial index (TBI) which screens for vascular pathology proximal to the toes.

METHODS

Using a cross-sectional design, we defined the subpopulations: (1) Patients diagnosed with schizophrenia less than 2 years before inclusion (SCZ < 2), (2) Psychiatric healthy controls matched to subpopulation 1 on sex, age, and smoking status, and (3) Patients diagnosed with schizophrenia 10 or more years before inclusion (SCZ ≥ 10). TBI was calculated by dividing toe pressures by systolic brachial blood pressure, and PAD was defined by TBI < 0.70. Logistic regression analysis with PAD as outcome and sex, age, smoking status, BMI, skin temperature, diagnosis of schizophrenia, and comorbidities as explanatory variables was conducted.

RESULTS

PAD was present in 26.2% of patients diagnosed with SCZ < 2 (17 of 65) and in 18.5% of psychiatric healthy controls (12 of 65) with no statistically significant difference in prevalence rates (p = 0.29). PAD was present in 22.0% of patients diagnosed with SCZ ≥ 10 (31 of 141). In logistic regression, patients diagnosed with SCZ < 2 had an increased odds of PAD with psychiatric healthy controls as reference (Odds ratio = 2.80, 95% confidence interval 1.09-7.23, p = 0.03). The analysis was adjusted for age, sex, smoking status, BMI and comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes and heart disease.

CONCLUSIONS

This study did not find statistically significant increased prevalence rates of PAD in patients with schizophrenia even though patients with SCZ were compared to psychiatric healthy controls using TBI. Utilizing logistic regression PAD was associated with schizophrenia diagnosis within the last 2 years, age and skin temperature. As PAD is initially asymptomatic, screening could be relevant in patients with schizophrenia if other risk factors are prevalent. Further large-scale multicenter studies are warranted to investigate schizophrenia as a potential risk factor for PAD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT02885792.

Evaluating the prognostic performance of bedside tests used for peripheral arterial disease diagnosis in the prediction of diabetic foot ulcer healing

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic foot ulceration (DFU) is a common and challenging complication of diabetes. Risk stratification can guide further management. We aim to evaluate the prognostic performance of bedside tests used for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) diagnosis to predict DFU healing.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Testing for Arterial Disease in Diabetes (TrEAD) was a prospective observational study comparing the diagnostic performance of commonly used tests for PAD diagnosis. We performed a secondary analysis assessing whether these could predict DFU healing. Follow-up was performed prospectively for 12 months. The primary outcome was sensitivity for predicting ulcer healing. Secondary endpoints were specificity, predictive values, and likelihood ratios for ulcer healing.

RESULTS

123 of TrEAD participants with DFU were included. In 12 months, 52.8% of ulcers healed. The best negative diagnostic likelihood ratio (NDLR) was observed for the podiatry ankle duplex scan (PAD-scan) monophasic or biphasic with adverse features(NDLR 0.35, 95% CI 0.14-0.90). The highest positive likelihood ratios were observed for toe brachial pressure index of ≤0.2 (positive diagnostic likelihood ratio (PDLR) 7.67, 95% CI 0.91-64.84) and transcutaneous pressure of oxygen of ≤20 mm Hg (PDLR 2.68, 95% CI 0.54-13.25). Cox proportional hazards modeling demonstrated significantly greater probabilities of healing with triphasic waveforms (HR=2.54, 95% CI 1.23-5.3, p=0.012) and biphasic waveforms with non-adverse features (HR=13.67, 95% CI 4.78-39.1, p<0.001) on PAD-scan.

CONCLUSIONS

No single test performed well enough to be used in isolation as a prognostic marker for the prediction of DFU healing.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04058626.

Inflammatory, Metabolic, and Coagulation Effects on Medial Arterial Calcification in Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease

Calcium deposits in the vessel wall in the form of hydroxyapatite can accumulate in the intimal layer, as in atherosclerotic plaque, but also in the medial layer, as in medial arterial calcification (MAC) or medial Möenckeberg sclerosis. Once considered a passive, degenerative process, MAC has recently been shown to be an active process with a complex but tightly regulated pathophysiology. Atherosclerosis and MAC represent distinct clinical entities that correlate in different ways with conventional cardiovascular risk factors. As both entities coexist in the vast majority of patients, it is difficult to estimate the relative contribution of specific risk factors to their development. MAC is strongly associated with age, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease. Given the complexity of MAC pathophysiology, it is expected that a variety of different factors and signaling pathways may be involved in the development and progression of the disease. In this article, we focus on metabolic factors, primarily hyperphosphatemia and hyperglycemia, and a wide range of possible mechanisms by which they might contribute to the development and progression of MAC. In addition, we provide insight into possible mechanisms by which inflammatory and coagulation factors are involved in vascular calcification processes. A better understanding of the complexity of MAC and the mechanisms involved in its development is essential for the development of potential preventive and therapeutic strategies.

Evaluation of the ankle brachial index and toe brachial index for peripheral arterial disease diagnosis in patients over 70 years with lower limb ulcers

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the ankle brachial index using pulsed Doppler, and the toe brachial index using laser Doppler, in comparison with the arterial Doppler ultrasound of the lower limbs as a reference test, in a population of non-diabetic subjects over 70 years old with lower limb ulcers and without chronic renal failure.

METHODS

We included 50 patients, 100 lower limbs from the vascular medicine department of the Paris Saint-Joseph hospital from December 2019 to May 2021.

RESULTS

We found a sensitivity of 54.5% for the ankle brachial index and a specificity of 67.6%. Regarding the toe brachial index, the sensitivity was 80.3% and the specificity 44.1%. We could explain the low sensitivity of the ankle brachial index in our population by the mediacalcosis of elderly subjects, avoidable with the measurement of the toe blood pressure index, which had a better sensitivity.

CONCLUSION

In a population of subjects over 70 years of age with a lower limb ulcer, without diabetes and without chronic renal failure, it would seem judicious to use the ankle brachial index in association with the toe brachial index for the diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease, followed by an arterial Doppler ultrasound of the lower limbs in order to evaluate the lesion profile of patients with a result of less than 0.7 of toe brachial index.

Artificial intelligence in atherosclerotic disease: Applications and trends

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the most common cause of death globally. Increasing amounts of highly diverse ASCVD data are becoming available and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques now bear the promise of utilizing them to improve diagnosis, advance understanding of disease pathogenesis, enable outcome prediction, assist with clinical decision making and promote precision medicine approaches. Machine learning (ML) algorithms in particular, are already employed in cardiovascular imaging applications to facilitate automated disease detection and experts believe that ML will transform the field in the coming years. Current review first describes the key concepts of AI applications from a clinical standpoint. We then provide a focused overview of current AI applications in four main ASCVD domains: coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral arterial disease (PAD), abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), and carotid artery disease. For each domain, applications are presented with refer to the primary imaging modality used [e.g., computed tomography (CT) or invasive angiography] and the key aim of the applied AI approaches, which include disease detection, phenotyping, outcome prediction, and assistance with clinical decision making. We conclude with the strengths and limitations of AI applications and provide future perspectives.

Lower Limb Arterial Ischemia: An Independent Risk Factor of Sudomotor Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

As an early manifestation of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), sudomotor dysfunction significantly increases the risk of diabetic foot ulcer. The pathogenesis of sudomotor dysfunction is still unclear. Lower limb ischemia may be related to sudomotor dysfunction, but few studies have explored it. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between sudomotor function and comprehensive lower limb arterial ischemia including large arteries, small arteries and microvascular in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

511 T2DM patients were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Sudomotor function was assessed qualitatively and quantitatively by Neuropad. Lower limb arterial ischemia was defined as any abnormality of the ankle brachial index (ABI), toe brachial index (TBI) or transcutaneous oxygen tension (TcPO2).

RESULTS

In this study, 75.1% of patients had sudomotor dysfunction. Compared with normal sudomotor function, patients with sudomotor dysfunction had a higher incidence of lower limb arterial ischemia (51.2% vs 36.2%, p = 0.004). Similarly, compared with the non-arterial ischemia group, the proportion of sudomotor disorders was higher in the arterial ischemia group (p = 0.004). Low TBI and low TcPO2 groups also had a higher proportion of sudomotor disorders (all p < 0.05).Compare with normal groups, low ABI, low TBI, and low TcPO2 groups had lower Slop4 which quantitatively reflecting Neuropad discoloration. Arterial ischemia was an independent risk factor for sudomotor dysfunction [OR = 1.754, p = 0.024]. Low TcPO2 also independently increased the risk of sudomotor disorders [OR = 2.231, p = 0.026].

CONCLUSION

Lower limb arterial ischemia is an independent risk factor of sudomotor dysfunction. Especially below the ankle (BTA) small arteries and microvascular ischemia may also be involved in the occurrence of sudomotor disorders.

The Value of Infrared Thermography to Assess Foot and Limb Perfusion in Relation to Medical, Surgical, Exercise or Pharmacological Interventions in Peripheral Artery Disease: A Systematic Review

Infrared thermography (IRT) is a promising imaging method in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). This systematic review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the employment of IRT as both a diagnostic method and an outcome measure in PAD patients in relation to any kind of intervention. On September 2022, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and gray literature were screened. Eligible articles employing IRT in PAD were screened for possible inclusion. The RoB 2.0 tool was used to assess the risk of bias. Twenty-one eligible articles were finally included, recruiting a total of 1078 patients. The IRT was used for PAD diagnosis/monitoring in 11 studies or to assess the effect of interventions (revascularization, pharmacological therapy, or exercise rehabilitation) in 10 studies. The analysis of the included papers raised high concerns about the overall quality of the studies. In conclusion, IRT as a noninvasive technique showed promising results in detecting foot perfusion in PAD patients. However, limits related to devices, points of reference, and measurement conditions need to be overcome by properly designed trials before recommending its implementation in current vascular practice.

Hemodynamic evaluation of lower limbs in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia

Revascularization plays an important role in the treatment of chronic limb-threatening ischemia. Evaluation of hemodynamic compromise in the lower extremity is required to optimize the treatment strategy for each patient. A variety of methods have been reported to detect arterial obstruction or impaired foot perfusion. This article reviews each method, clarifying features and limitations.

Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Long-Term Compression in Patients with Mixed Arterial and Venous Etiology Ulcers in the Leg

Elastic compressions are standard treatment for leg ulcers of venous etiology. The effect of compressions on ulcers of mixed (arterial or venous) etiology, however, has rarely been studied. The objective of this study was to evaluate the variation in transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2) in patients with ulcers of mixed arterial or venous etiology treated with 1 month of compression. This prospective cohort study was conducted at a university hospital in France. Patient eligibility was for those attending a consultation of a work-up of a leg ulcer of mixed arterial-venous etiology lasting at least 4 to 6 weeks. Compressions were prescribed according to the hemodynamic status and were evaluated by the ankle-brachial index and toe-brachial index using a decision-making algorithm based on French national guidelines. Quality of life was assessed using the Short-Form 36-Item (SF-36) questionnaire. In total, 32 patients were included between September 30, 2018 and May 31, 2019. A difference was observed between TcPO2 before compression (49.3 ± 13.01 mm Hg) and after 1 month (51.2 ± 15.05 mm Hg), average change 1.9 ± 2.04 mm Hg ( p  = 0.025). The average ulcer size prior to compression was 49 ± 102 cm ² versus 37 ± 94 cm ² after 1 month of effective compression, corresponding to a reduction of 12 ± 8 cm ² ( p  < 0.001). There was a reduction in the bodily pain dimension of the SF-36. Compressions adapted to the hemodynamic status led to an increase in TcPO2, a reduction in wound size, and an improvement to bodily pain in patients with leg ulcers of mixed arterial-venous etiology.

Vascular Assessment in Patients With a Lower Limb Wound: A Correlational Study of Photoplethysmography and Laser Doppler Flowmetry Toe Pressure Techniques

BACKGROUND

Vascular assessment of the lower limbs is essential in patients with diabetes. In the presence of noncompressible arteries, the ankle brachial index (ABI) can either be inconclusive or provide false-positive results. Toe pressure measurement has been suggested as an alternative as a noninvasive method for detecting peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Toe pressure measurement can be performed either by photoplethysmography (PPG) or by Laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF). The aim of this study was to determine correlations between the two techniques in order to promote the use of PPG in clinical practice.

METHODS

This was a prospective correlational study of 108 consecutive recruited adult patients, with and without diabetes, with at least one lower limb wound from a University-affiliated hospital wound care clinic. Toe pressure measurements were both performed with PPG and LDF devices.

RESULTS

Mean toe pressure values for PPG and LDF were, respectively, 83.7 (SD 35.4) and 79.5 (SD 32.0) mmHg (with a paired t-test 3.969, P < 0.01). In patients with at least one lower limb wound, a strong linear relation was found between PPG and LDF toe pressure techniques with a Pearson's r correlation coefficient of 0.920 (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

PPG and LDF toe pressure techniques are equivalent in patients with at least one lower limb wound, irrespective of the presence of diabetes. Therefore, in the presence of an ABI with inconclusive results, such as in a patient with noncompressible vessels, both toe pressure techniques can be used for assessing the vascular supply of the lower limb with a wound.

Laser Doppler Measurements of Systolic Blood Pressure on the First and Second Toe in Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease

Laser Doppler was used to measure toe blood pressure (TBP) in 40 consecutive patients with various degree of peripheral arterial disease. The aim of this methodological study was to increase the usefulness of TBP by exploring the interchangeability between TBP from the first and second toe and by investigating daily routine reproducibility and measurement variability. According to our study design pressure values were based on three measurements that were averaged. At simultaneous measurements, TBP of the first toe was 71 mm Hg (standard deviation [SD] 25) compared with 70 mm Hg (SD 25) on the second toe. The correlation ( r ) between first and second toe pressure measurements was 0.84 and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.84. The difference between TBP on the first and second toe was not related to gender, diabetes, or magnitude of the pressures. Repeated TBP measurements of the right first toe after disconnection of cuffs, 5 to 10 minutes rest, and reconnection of cuffs had a coefficient of variation (CV) of 9% and an ICC of 0.93. CV for toe-brachial index (TBI) was 8%. Our results show that measurements of TBP from the second toe to a large extent are interchangeable with those assessed from the first toe and can be used in clinical situations where measurements from the first toe are not feasible. Flow detection with three averaged laser Doppler measurements generates TBP and TBI with low variability.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of Supera interwoven nitinol stents for the treatment of infrainguinal peripheral arterial disease

INTRODUCTION

Stenting of infrainguinal lesions can be rather challenging due to the mechanical stress applied on the arteries during motion. We assessed the short-term and mid-term safety and efficacy of Supera interwoven nitinol stent for the treatment of infrainguinal arterial disease.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We conducted a systematic review for articles published from December 2011 up to May 2021 regarding studies assessing the safety and efficacy of Supera interwoven nitinol stents for the treatment of infra-inguinal peripheral arterial disease. Studies that involved synchronous application of the Supera stent and drug delivering devices, or any alternative endoprosthesis were excluded. Pooled Kaplan-Meier survival curves and smoothed hazard estimates were generated. Data were meta-analyzed using a random effects model. Primary endpoints included primary patency and freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization (TRL). Secondary endpoints included technical success and major amputation at 1 year post intervention.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Seventeen studies with 2015 patients (65.3% males) and a mean lesion length of 137.2 mm were included. Of the total treated lesions, 44.9% involved femoropopliteal artery and 37.4% the popliteal artery. Chronic total occlusions made up 49% of the treated lesions. There were no stent fractures reported. The pooled technical success rate is 99.84% (95% CI: 99.26-100). Pooled major amputation rate at 1 year is 1.48% (95% CI: 0.47-2.87). Pooled primary patency and freedom from TLR rates at 1 year are 83.5% (95% CI: 80.24-86.54) and 90.32% (95% CI: 88.75-91.79), respectively. Pooling of individual patient data produced primary patency and freedom from TLR rates of 84.48% (95% CI: 82.66-86.11) and 90.81% (95% CI: 88.64-92.58) respectively. According to the smoothed hazard ratio estimate the risk for losing primary patency peaked between 4 and 5 months while the risk for TLR peaked between 7 and 8 months after the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

This review and meta-analysis indicated the safety and efficacy of Supera stents for the treatment of challenging infrainguinal lesions in the short-term and mid-term periods, with acceptable primary patency and freedom from TLR rates. Clinicians should be aware that between 4 and 5 months patients face a higher risk for event occurrence.

Low Toe-Brachial Index Is Associated With Stroke Outcome Despite Normal Ankle-Brachial Index

Introduction: We investigated whether the toe-brachial index (TBI) is associated with stroke prognosis and evaluated this association in patients with normal ankle-brachial index (ABI). Methods: Acute ischemic stroke patients who underwent TBI measurements were enrolled. Poor functional outcome was defined as modified Rankin Scale score ≥3. Major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) was defined as stroke recurrence, myocardial infarction, or death. Normal ABI was defined as 0.9 ≤ ABI ≤ 1.4. Results: A total of 1,697 patients were enrolled and followed up for a median 39.7 (interquartile range, 25.7-54.6) months. During the period, 305 patients suffered MACE (18.0%), including 171 (10.1%) stroke recurrences. TBI was associated with hypertension, diabetes, atrial fibrillation, aortic plaque score, ABI, and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (all p < 0.05). In multivariable logistic regression, TBI was inversely associated with poor functional outcome in all patients [odds ratio (OR) 0.294, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.114-0.759], even in patients with normal ABI (OR 0.293, 95% CI 0.095-0.906). In multivariable Cox regression, TBI < 0.6 was associated with stroke recurrence [hazard ratio (HR) 1.651, 95% CI 1.135-2.400], all-cause mortality (HR 2.105, 95% CI 1.343-3.298), and MACE (HR 1.838, 95% CI 1.396-2.419) in all patients. TBI < 0.6 was also associated with stroke recurrence (HR 1.681, 95% CI 1.080-2.618), all-cause mortality (HR 2.075, 95% CI 1.180-3.651), and MACE (HR 1.619, 95% CI 1.149-2.281) in patients with normal ABI. Conclusions: Low TBI is independently associated with poor short- and long-term outcomes in acute ischemic stroke patients despite normal ABI.

Role of Doppler Ultrasound and Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty in Early Diagnosis and Management of Peripheral Artery Disease

BACKGROUND: Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) denotes vascular disorder which peripheral artery’s obstruction or constriction is found. PAD with diabetic history is more susceptible to ischemic ulcer than PAD with no diabetic. The presence of Diabetes mellitus (DM) in PAD can speed up 4 times greater risk of developing Critical Limb Ischemia. In our hospital, difficulty performing extremity perfusion assessment is often found because those examinations are not available, so possibility of PAD can be missed. Therefore, optimalization use of Doppler Ultrasound (DUS) is important in our case. AIM: The purpose of our case writing is to give information about substantial parameter of DUS in determine presence of PAD and define the role of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) in PAD. The earlier PAD discovered, faster further treatment conducted, especially PTA. CASE REPORT: A 65-year-old female patient with intermittent left calf pain for 7 months who went to internal medicine outpatient has reported. She has history of type 2 DM and significant hyperlipidemia. On physical examination, vital signs revealed normal value. Body mass index was 28 kg/m2. Resting ankle-brachial index (ABI) measurement was 1.14 and 1.12 at the right and left dorsalis pedis, respectively. DUS showed spectral narrow, reversal flow and no clear spectral window in superficial femoral artery. There are clear spectral window, spectral narrow, and reversal flow in poplitea artery. No clear spectral window, no spectral narrow, and no reversal flow in anterior tibia artery. Clear spectral window, reversal flow, and no spectral narrow are appear in posterior tibia artery. Arteriogram of left inferior extremity showed middle part partial stenosis of anterior tibia artery. Dilatation with standard balloon for 1 min was done. After that, no stenosis in same location and she wasn’t feel calf pain again. CONCLUSION: Compared with two other parameters, reversal flow in DUS is most important parameter to establish presence of stenosis. PTA is adequate to give revascularization stenosis in PAD.

Accuracy of Ankle-Brachial Index, Toe-Brachial Index, and Risk Classification Score in Discriminating Peripheral Artery Disease in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease

The accuracy of ankle-brachial index (ABI) and toe-brachial index (TBI) in discriminating lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) has not been evaluated in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We measured ABI, TBI, and Doppler ultrasound in 100 predialysis patients with CKD without revascularization or amputation. Leg-specific ABI was calculated using higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) in posterior tibial or dorsalis pedis artery divided by higher brachial SBP; alternative ABI was calculated using lower SBP in posterior tibial or dorsalis pedis artery. PAD was defined as ≥50% stenosis detected by Doppler ultrasound. PAD risk classification score was calculated using cardiovascular disease risk factors. The area under the curve (AUC, 95% confidence interval [CI]) for discriminating ultrasound-diagnosed PAD was 0.78 (0.69 to 0.87) by ABI, 0.80 (0.71 to 0.89) by alternative ABI, and 0.74 (0.63 to 0.86) by TBI. Sensitivity and specificity were 25% and 97% for ABI ≤0.9, 41% and 95% for alternative ABI ≤0.9, and 45% and 93% for TBI ≤0.7, respectively. AUC (95% CI) of PAD risk classification score was 0.86 (0.78 to 0.94) with sensitivity and specificity of 95% and 60% for risk score ≥0.10, 76% and 76% for risk score ≥0.25, and 43% and 95% for risk score ≥0.55. Combining risk score with ABI, alternative ABI, and TBI increased AUC (95% CI) to 0.89 (0.82 to 0.96), 0.89 (0.80 to 0.98), and 0.87 (0.78 to 0.96), respectively. In conclusion, current ABI and TBI diagnostic criteria have high specificity but low sensitivity for classifying PAD in patients with CKD. PAD classification risk score based on cardiovascular disease risk factors improves the accuracy of PAD classification.

Dose-Response Relationship Between Physical Activity and the Incidence of Peripheral Artery Disease in General Population: Insights From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2004

Purpose: A low ABI, ≦0.9, indicates peripheral artery disease (PAD) and physical activity (PA) represents an important non-surgical treatment for patients with PAD. However, as for the general population, the associations between PA, PAD, and their mutual dependence are not well-defined. Here we aimed to determine whether there is a dose-response relationship between PA and incidence of PAD in the general population using restricted cubic spline (RCS). Patients and methods: This study analyzed 1,370 adults aged ≧40 years who had participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) during 1999-2004. The ABI of the participants were measured by trained technicians, and PAD was defined as ABI ≦0.9. PA was obtained with a standard questionnaire, and metabolic equivalents (MET) were used to quantify the PA level. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between PA and incidence of PAD, and the dose-response relationship was analyzed with RCS. Results: PAD was present in 6.2% of the participants: 5.6% of males and 6.9% of females. After adjusting for potential confounders, compared with the first quartile (Q1) of MET, the odds ratios (ORs) of PAD for those with Q2, Q3, and Q4 of MET were 0.688 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.684-0.692], 0.463 (95% CI = 0.460-0.466), 0.816 (95% CI = 0.812-0.821), respectively (all p < 0.0001). The RCS regression showed that physical activity was related to the incidence of PAD in a non-linear manner (p for non-linearity < 0.0001). For females, the prevalence of PAD decreased as physical activity increased, reaching the minimum for activity at ~5,800 MET-min month^-1 (OR = 0.425, 95% CI = 0.424-0.426), and for males, no plateau was found in this study. Conclusion: The prevalence of PAD is inversely associated with PA, and vigorous activities might help decrease PAD risk for general population. The prevalence of PAD reaches the minimum at ~5,800 MET-min month^-1, representing a recommended PA value.

Systemic sclerosis is associated with lower limb vascular stiffness and microvascular impairment: results from a prospective study

OBJECTIVE

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease characterized by microangiopathy. Peripheral arterial disease, increasingly studied during SSc, is responsible for digital ulcers, associated with a high risk of amputation. The aim of our study was to assess the frequency of lower limb arterial impairment in SSc patients by measuring ankle-brachial index (ABI), toe pressure (TP), and toe-brachial index (TBI).

METHODS

Systemic sclerosis patients were included prospectively during 1 year in Tenon and Saint-Antoine Hospitals, Paris. Clinical and biological data were recorded. For each patient, ABI, TP, and TBI were measured and an arterial duplex ultrasonography was prescribed in case of abnormal results.

RESULTS

Eighty-six patients were included (94% women, median age 62 years). Only 24% of them had no lower limb hemodynamic vascular abnormalities; 44% had an isolated microvascular abnormality (normal ABI and TBI<0.75); 31% had at least a macrovascular injury associated or not with microvascular impairment (abnormal ABI) and 12.6% had a TP<50 mmHg. During follow-up, there was a trend towards association of low TBI with more major adverse event (all-cause mortality, non-fatal stroke, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and lower limb ischemic manifestations) than normal TBI.

CONCLUSION

By measuring ABI and TP, we showed that 76% of SSc patients had hemodynamic arterial lower limb abnormalities related to macro- and/or microvascular impairment and that 28% had vascular stiffness. In SSc patients, ABI is not an accurate tool to detect lower limb arterial disease, likely due to underlying micro- and macrovascular changes. Key Points • The presence of lower limb macro-and/or microvascular involvement was detected in 76% of SSc patients. • In SSc patients, ABI is not an accurate tool to detect lower limb arterial disease, likely due to underlying microvascular changes and frequent arterial stiffness.

Antithrombotic Therapy in Peripheral Artery Disease: Stepping in the Right Direction

We reviewed the various antithrombotic therapies available to treat peripheral artery disease (PAD). A literature review using the PubMed and MEDLINE databases used the following keywords: antithrombotic therapy, anticoagulation, peripheral artery disease, and peripheral vascular disease. Randomized studies written in English that assessed the use of antithrombotic therapy in patients with PAD were evaluated. PAD is a worldwide condition that limits blood flow in the lower extremities, leading to a risk of major adverse cardiovascular events and major adverse limb events. Antithrombotic therapy is necessary to prevent these complications, and the choice of therapy depends upon the stage of disease progression. For symptomatic patients in the beginning stage, single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) is the preferred therapy, specifically, aspirin. For patients undergoing endovascular revascularization, the preferred therapy is dual antiplatelet therapy using aspirin and clopidogrel combined for at least the first month followed by long-term SAPT. For patients undergoing surgical revascularization, the preferred choice of therapy depends upon the type of graft used, with better results obtained with antiplatelet therapy for prosthetic grafts and anticoagulation for venous grafts. New studies have shown that therapy using both antiplatelets and anticoagulation in the form of aspirin plus low-dose rivaroxaban can reduce complications in all three patient populations, which has paved the way for future studies featuring direct oral anticoagulants with the potential to change current guideline recommendations.

Intraprocedural Transcutaneous Oxygen Pressure and Systolic Toe Pressure Measurements During and After Endovascular Intervention in Patients with Chronic Limb Threatening Ischaemia

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in transcutaneous oxygen pressure (tcpO₂) and systolic toe pressure (TP) during endovascular intervention.

METHODS

This was a single centre prospective, non-randomised, observational feasibility study. Patients with chronic limb threatening ischaemia (CLTI) due to infrainguinal disease scheduled for endovascular treatment were included between March 2018 and December 2019. TcpO₂ was measured continuously bilaterally at foot level throughout the procedure and at follow up. Specific time points during the intervention were chosen for comparison to baseline (before arterial puncture): average tcpO₂ level five minutes prior to percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA); 10 minutes after PTA; and at completion. Bilateral TP was recorded using laser Doppler flowmetry before arterial puncture, at completion, and at clinical follow up. Angiograms were analysed for successful revascularisation and vascular lesions classified according to the Global Limb Anatomical Scoring System (GLASS). Rutherford and WIfI (Wound, Ischaemia, and foot Infection) classifications were registered, as well as clinical outcome.

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients completed the study. Completion angiograms showed inline flow to the foot in all but two patients. Median time to follow up was 10 weeks (range 8 - 13 weeks) and all patients except one improved clinically. TcpO₂ decreased during the initial stage of the intervention, from before arterial puncture to five minute average before PTA (p < .001) and did not recover to above baseline values at the end of intervention. TcpO₂ increased significantly at follow up (p < .001). TP increased statistically significantly during intervention (p < .001) and at follow up (p < .001) compared with baseline.

CONCLUSION

TcpO₂ and TP measurements are safe and feasible non-invasive techniques for haemodynamic monitoring during endovascular revascularisation. TP increased significantly immediately after completion of the successful intervention, whereas tcpO₂ did not. Both TP and tcpO₂ demonstrated a significant increase at the 10 week follow up.

Peripheral Vascular Disease and Kidney Transplant Outcomes: Rethinking an Important Ongoing Complication

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is highly prevalent in patients on the waiting list for kidney transplantation (KT) and after transplantation and is associated with impaired transplant outcomes. Multiple traditional and nontraditional risk factors, as well as uremia- and transplant-related factors, affect 2 processes that can coexist, atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis, leading to PVD. Some pathogenic mechanisms, such as inflammation-related endothelial dysfunction, mineral metabolism disorders, lipid alterations, or diabetic status, may contribute to the development and progression of PVD. Early detection of PVD before and after KT, better understanding of the mechanisms of vascular damage, and application of suitable therapeutic approaches could all minimize the impact of PVD on transplant outcomes. This review focuses on the following issues: (1) definition, epidemiological data, diagnosis, risk factors, and pathogenic mechanisms in KT candidates and recipients; (2) adverse clinical consequences and outcomes; and (3) classical and new therapeutic approaches.

Pharmacological management of obstructive peripheral arterial disease: two case reports

INTRODUCTION

Peripheral artery disease (PAD), also abbreviated as LEAD or lower extremity artery disease, is an important predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Rivaroxaban, a selective direct factor Xa inhibitor, is proposed as an additional pharmacologic option for managing this disease.

CASES

Two patients presented with PAD and high-risk comorbidities. The first case showed how the evaluation of the cardiovascular risk guided the therapeutic management of the patient. The second case was about a patient diagnosed with LEAD who experienced worsening from exertional ischemia towards critical ischemia requiring amputation despite distal revascularization, and parenteral vasodilator therapy to relieve pain. This case suggested a comprehensive care management approach, adapted to PAD progression stages.

CONCLUSION

The PAD management consists nowadays of optimizing the management of cardiovascular risk factors and disease progression. Diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and patient education should be handled by a vascular specialist in a specialized care unit.

Diabetes Mellitus and Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease

Lower extremity peripheral artery disease, or often simply called peripheral artery disease (PAD), is a common cardiovascular disease, as coronary artery disease is. Atherosclerotic disease of the arteries of the lower extremity, or arteriosclerosis obliterans, accounts for the vast majority of PAD today. Rest pain, nonhealing ulcers, and gangrenes associated with chronic ischemia (i.e., Fontaine stage III and IV or Rutherford category 4 to 6) are referred to as chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI), formally called critical limb ischemia (CLI). This narrative review focuses on atherosclerotic PAD, especially CLTI, mainly highlighting its link with diabetes mellitus (DM). This article will first overview the clinical impact of DM in patients with symptomatic PAD and that of symptomatic PAD in patients with DM, followed by the clinical features of CLTI, which will be discussed from a viewpoint of its prognosis, patient profile, onset, and seasonality. DM poses a great clinical impact on CLTI, and vice versa. Patient profile appears different between DM patients complicated with CLTI and the general population with DM. Furthermore, although CLTI is pathologically rooted in atherosclerosis as is acute coronary syndrome (ACS), CLTI has considerably different clinical features compared with ACS. CLTI has an extremely poor prognosis even after revascularization, and there is ample room for improvement in terms of its prognosis. Some measures might be needed in healthcare and clinical settings before revascularization: e.g., DM control and regular ischemia risk evaluation before CLTI onset, proper diagnosis at CLTI onset, and prompt referral to a vascular specialist after CLTI onset, although its evidence is still scanty. Piling up evidence of patients with CLTI, by patients with CLTI, and for patients with CLTI is needed.

Prevalence and risk factors of peripheral artery disease in a population with chronic kidney disease in Australia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

There is a lack of clarity and guidance for screening peripheral artery disease (PAD) in persons with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end stage kidney disease (ESKD) despite this group being at excess risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). In this current study, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the prevalence and risk factors for PAD in persons with CKD in Australian cohorts. We used the inverse variance heterogeneity meta-analysis with double arcsine transformation to summarize the prevalence of PAD (with 95% CIs). Nine studies and 18 reports from the Australia and New Zealand dialysis and transplant registry with 36 cohorts were included in the review. We found a substantially higher PAD prevalence in cohorts based on an ankle-brachial index (ABI) or toe systolic pressure (TBI) than cohorts based on self-reported history. Higher PAD prevalence was observed in ESKD persons than CKD persons without dialysis (PAD diagnosis based on ABI or TBI: 31% in ESKD persons and 23% in CKD persons, PAD diagnosis based on self-reported history: 17% in ESKD persons and 10% in CKD persons). Older age, Caucasian race, cerebrovascular disease and haemodialysis were associated with the presence of PAD in ESKD persons. Our findings indicated a considerable proportion of PAD in CKD and ESKD persons particularly in those with ESKD. To develop and provide an adequate plan to clinically manage CKD patients with PAD, evidence of cost-effectiveness and clinical benefit of early detection of PAD in persons with CKD in Australia is recommended for future studies.

Performance of finger systolic blood pressure measurement to detect digital occlusive arterial disease in systemic sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

Digital ulcers (DUs) related to digital occlusive arterial disease (DOAD) are frequent in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Finger systolic blood pressure (FSBP) and digital-brachial pressure index (DBI) using laser Doppler flowmetry constitute a non-invasive means of detecting DOAD in SSc, although thresholds have yet to be established for defining DOAD. The purpose of this study was to ascertain FSBP and DBI thresholds to detect DOAD in SSc patients. The intra/interday reproducibility of curve reading by 4 vascular physicians in relation to finger pressure measurement was also investigated.

METHODS

SSc patients were followed in this single-center study (Rennes University Hospital, France) between November 2017 and October 2019.Theses patients underwent tests before and after heating at two visits spaced 10 days apart. DOAD was diagnosed on the basis of post-warming skin blood flow of ≤ 206 arbitrary units measured by LDF, contingent on previous results validated by arteriography as a gold standard. An interday kappa coefficient with a 95% confidence interval was used to assess reproducibility.

RESULTS

16 (10 females; mean age: 63 ± 9 years) SSc patients were included. Mean time interval between visits was 9 ± 5 days. The best FSBP threshold for DOAD diagnosis was 76 mmHg and DBI was 0.74 after warming. FSBP and DBI sensitivity/specificity were 59.1%[49.6%; 68.5%]/92.5% [85.3%; 99.6%] and 73.3%[64.9%; 81.8%]/83.0% [72.9%; 93.1%] respectively. Intra/interday reproducibility ranged from fair to good.

CONCLUSION

The conclusions drawn from this study suggest that FSBP ≤ 76 mmHg and DBI ≤ 0.74 thresholds are potentially reliable indicators of DOAD and demonstrate fair to good intra and interday reproducibility.

Modern Principles in the Acute Surgical Management of Open Distal Tibial Fractures

Over the past two decades, management of open distal tibial fractures has evolved such that a staged approach, with external fixation and débridement during the index procedure, followed by definitive fixation and wound closure at a later date, is often considered the standard of care. Although definitive treatment of these complex injuries is often done by a multidisciplinary team of surgeons well versed in periarticular fracture repair and soft-tissue coverage in the distal extremity, the on-call orthopaedic surgeon doing the index procedure must understand the principles and rationale of the staged treatment algorithm to avoid compromising definitive treatment options and ensure the best possible patient outcome. The mechanism of injury, neurovascular status, size and location of soft-tissue injury, fracture pattern, and concomitant injuries in the polytraumatized patient should direct the treatment plan and anticipated outcomes. This review focuses on evaluation and management of these complex injuries with an emphasis on early aggressive débridement, principles of initial fracture fixation, and modern options for soft-tissue coverage, including local and free tissue transfer.

Lower extremity CT angiography in peripheral arterial disease: from the established approach to evolving technical developments

With the advent of multidetector computed tomography (CT), CT angiography (CTA) has gained widespread popularity for noninvasive imaging of the arterial vasculature. Peripheral extremity CTA can nowadays be performed rapidly with high spatial resolution and a decreased amount of both intravenous contrast and radiation exposure. In patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD), this technique can be used to delineate the bilateral lower extremity arterial tree and to determine the amount of atherosclerotic disease while differentiating between acute and chronic changes. This article provides an overview of several imaging techniques for PAD, specifically discusses the use of peripheral extremity CTA in patients with PAD, clinical indications, established technical considerations and novel technical developments, and the effect of postprocessing imaging techniques and structured reporting.

Pedal Acceleration Time (PAT): A Novel Predictor of Limb Salvage

BACKGROUND

In the setting of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), pedal arch interrogation by ultrasound has not been well described. Patients with noncompressible vessels and/or open wounds of the foot may preclude the use of ankle-brachial indices, toe pressure measurements, or TcPO2, respectively. We propose that pedal artery interrogations with Pedal Acceleration Time (PAT) can be a predictor for limb salvage in patients with Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia (CLTI).

METHODS

A retrospective review of a prospectively kept database was performed from 2018 to 2019. Patients with pending amputation due to severe infection (WIFI infection class 2 and 3) were excluded from the study. We identified 73 limbs with CLTI that fit the inclusion criteria. Data included WIFI classification, age, gender, cardiovascular risk factors, PAT, ABI, and TBI when reliable, were collected. PAT measurements were categorized into 4 classifications; 1 (40-120 msec), 2 (121-180 msec), 3 (181-224 msec), and 4 (Greater than 225 msec). Statistical analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Seventy-three limbs with CLTI were included in our study. All patients underwent arterial revascularization with either percutaneous technique or arterial bypass. Limb salvage was achieved in 59 (81%) of the 73 limbs. All 59 limbs had a 2-classification improvement in their PAT following interventions. A total of 14 (19%) limbs without improvement in their PAT underwent above ankle level amputations. An improvement in PAT classes to class 1 or 2 is associated with limb salvage.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with noncompressible ankle pressures or nonobtainable toe pressures poses a challenge in the complete assessment of WIFI classification. Our group has shown that PAT can be used in the scoring system for severity of ischemia in conjunction with current WIFI classification. Our data suggests that limb salvage correlates with post procedure PAT in category 1 and 2. Therefore we propose that PAT be added as part of the WIFI classification.

Familial tendency for hypertension is associated with increased vascular stiffness

OBJECTIVE

Hypertension is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease and premature death. New methods for early detection of hypertension and its consequences can reduce complications arising from uncontrolled hypertension. Pulse-wave velocity (PWV), a measure of arterial stiffness, has been recognized as a valuable tool in assessing risk for cardiovascular complications, although its use in clinical practice is currently limited. Here we examine whether brachial--ankle PWV (baPWV) and femoral--ankle PWV (faPWV) are elevated in nonhypertensive volunteers, with and without a history of familial hypertension.

METHODS

Volunteers were recruited and questioned as to their medical background and family history. Participants were divided into two groups based on history of familial hypertension and were measured for baPWV and faPWV. Carotid--femoral PWV was computed from these measurements.

RESULTS

A total of 82 healthy nonhypertensive volunteers (mean age 31.4 ± 9.6) were recruited. Among the study cohort, 43.7% had a history of familial hypertension. There were no between-group differences in any other clinical or demographic characteristics. Both baPWV and faPWV were significantly elevated in volunteers with a history of familial hypertension (10.86 ± 1.69 vs. 9.68 ± 1.52 m/s, P < 0.004, and 7.01 ± 1.65 vs. 6.28 ± 1.26 m/s, P < 0.028, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Volunteers with a history of familial hypertension present with elevated baPWV and faPWV. This is suggestive of increased central and peripheral arterial stiffness in susceptible individuals before the onset of hypertension. Routine measurement of these parameters may allow for early intervention and risk stratification, especially in persons with a history of familial hypertension.

A Pilot Study Investigating the Use of Regional Oxygen Saturation as a Predictor of Ischemic Wound Healing Outcome after Endovascular Treatment in Patients with Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia

Objective: To determine the prognostic value of regional tissue oxygenation saturation (rSO₂) for ulcer healing after endovascular treatment (EVT) of peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

Materials and Methods: Among PAD patients, 34 patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia underwent EVT for limb salvage. We retrospectively analyzed the cutoff rSO₂ values on postoperative day 1 to predict ulcer healing and patient prognosis. Skin perfusion pressure (SPP) and transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO₂) were also used to assess wound healing.

Results: A finger-mounted tissue oximeter can easily measure rSO₂ on the dorsal foot. Among the 34 patients, the ulcer healed in 25, and no changes were observed in 2 patients at 1 month after EVT. However, 7 patients needed major amputation at the same time. Wound healing was achieved in all patients with rSO₂≥50%. With this cutoff, the sensitivity and specificity of the new device for wound healing were 100% and 64%, respectively. In all the wound healing cases, SPP was ≥45 mmHg, and TcPO₂ was ≥40 mmHg.

Conclusion: To assess limb ischemia, rSO₂ can be measured quickly and easily using this device. We suggest that an rSO₂>50% shows good prognosis for ulcer healing.

Correlation between ankle-brachial index and thermography measurements in patients with peripheral arterial disease

OBJECTIVES

To correlate the ankle-brachial index and photographic thermography findings in patients with peripheral arterial disease.

METHODS

Photographic thermography was performed at the foot level, and ankle-brachial index was measured in 72 lower limbs of 53 patients with peripheral arterial disease who were divided into calcified artery, patients with an ankle-brachial index greater than 1.4; and non-calcified artery classified as asymptomatic, mild, moderate, and severe on the basis of peripheral arterial disease severity. Fisher's exact test was used for categorical data, and Wilcoxon test was used for numerical data.

RESULTS

Spearman's correlation analysis showed a strong correlation (R = 0.7) between the ankle-brachial index and the mean plantar temperature in patients without lower limb artery calcification. Linear regression yielded the predictor equation Y = 3.296 × X + 29.75, wherein ankle-brachial index (X) can be predicted on the basis of temperature values. Spearman's correlation test showed no significance (p = 0.2174) in patients with arterial calcification. Kruskal-Wallis test with post hoc analysis using Dunn's test for multiple comparisons showed that the mean plantar temperature was lower in patients with arterial calcification.

CONCLUSION

Photographic thermography findings show a strong correlation with ankle-brachial index in patients with non-calcified arteries.

Pre-operative ankle-brachial index for cardiovascular risk assessment in simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant recipients: a simple and elegant strategy!

Background

Patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus type 1 (IDDM1) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) undergoing simultaneous pancreas kidney transplantation (SPKT) are a population with diffuse atherosclerosis and elevated risk of cardio- and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality. We aimed to investigate the feasibility of preoperative screening for peripheral arterial disease (PAD), specifically ankle-brachial index (ABI) testing, to predict peri- and postoperative outcomes in SPKT recipients.

Methods

Medical data (2000–2016) from all patients with IDDM and ESKD undergoing SPKT at our transplant center were retrospectively analyzed. The correlation between PAD (defined by an abnormal ABI before SPKT and graft failure and mortality rates as primary end points, and the occurrence of acute myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular and peripheral vascular complications as secondary end points were investigated after adjustment for known cardiovascular risk factors.

Results

Among 101 SPKT recipients in our transplant population who underwent structured physiological arterial studies, 17 patients (17%) were diagnosed with PAD before transplantation. PAD, as defined by a low ABI index, was an independent and significant predictor of death (HR, 2.99 (95% CI 1.00–8.87), p = 0.049) and pancreas graft failure (HR, 4.3 (95% CI 1.24–14.91), p = 0.022). No significant differences were observed for kidney graft failure (HR 1.85 (95% CI 0.76–4.50), p = 0.178). In terms of the secondary outcomes, patients with PAD were more likely to have myocardial infarction, stroke, limb ischemia, gangrene or amputation (HR, 2.90 (95% CI 1.19–7.04), p = 0.019).

Conclusions

Pre-transplant screening for PAD and cardiovascular risk factors with non-invasive ABI testing may help to reduce perioperative complications in high-risk patients. Future research on long-term outcomes might provide more in depth insights in optimal treatment strategies for PAD among SPKT recipients.

Comparison of the Use of Arterial Doppler Waveform Classifications in Clinical Routine to Describe Lower Limb Flow

BACKGROUND

Characterisation of arterial Doppler waveforms is a persistent problem and a source of confusion in clinical practice. Classifications have been proposed to address the problem but their efficacy in clinical practice is unknown. The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of the categorisation rate of Descotes and Cathignol, Spronk et al. and the simplified Saint-Bonnet classifications.

METHODS

This is a multicentre prospective study where 130 patients attending a vascular arterial ultrasound were enrolled and Doppler waveform acquisition was performed at the common femoral, the popliteal, and the distal arteries at both sides. Experienced vascular specialists categorized these waveforms according to the three classifications.

RESULTS

of 1033 Doppler waveforms, 793 (76.8%), 943 (91.3%) and 1014 (98.2%) waveforms could be categorized using Descotes and Cathignol, Spronk et al. and the simplified Saint-Bonnet classifications, respectively. Differences in categorisation between classifications were significant (Chi squared test, p < 0.0001). Of 19 waveforms uncategorized using the simplified Saint-Bonnet classification, 58% and 84% were not categorized using the Spronk et al. and Descotes and Cathignol classifications, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present study suggest that the simplified Saint-Bonnet classification provides a superior categorisation rate when compared with Spronk et al. and Descotes and Cathignol classifications.

A Real-Time Blood Flow Measurement Device for Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease

PURPOSE

To evaluate the feasibility of a new optical device that measures peripheral blood flow as a diagnostic and monitoring tool for patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this prospective study, 167 limbs of 90 patients (mean age, 76 y; 53% men) with suspected PAD were evaluated with the FlowMet device, which uses a new type of dynamic light-scattering technology to assess blood flow in real time. Measurements of magnitude and phasicity of blood flow were combined into a single-value flow-waveform score and compared vs ankle-brachial index (ABI), toe-brachial index (TBI), and clinical presentation of patients per Rutherford category (RC). Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to predict RC. Area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity were compared among flow-waveform score, ABI, and TBI.

RESULTS

Qualitatively, the FlowMet waveforms were analogous to Doppler velocity measurements, and degradation of waveform phasicity and amplitude were observed with increasing PAD severity. Quantitatively, the flow, waveform, and composite flow-waveform scores decreased significantly with decreasing TBI. In predicting RC ≥ 4, the flow-waveform score (AUC = 0.83) showed a linear decrease with worsening patient symptoms and power comparable to that of TBI (AUC = 0.82) and better than that of ABI (AUC = 0.71). Optimal sensitivity and specificity pairs were found to be 56%/83%, 72%/81%, and 89%/74% for ABI, TBI, and flow-waveform score, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The technology tested in this pilot study showed a high predictive value for diagnosis of critical limb ischemia. The device showed promise as a diagnostic tool capable of providing clinical feedback in real time.