Peripheral Arterial Disease (P.A.D.) occurs when there is a build up of cholesterol and plaque in the arteries of the lower extremities, causing decreased blood flow to the legs and feet.
What is an A.B.I. Test?
A.B.I. or Ankle-Brachial Index is a non-invasive, pain-free test. The exam often takes 15-20 minutes, It feels similar to having your blood pressure taken during your regular check-ups. You will lie down on the exam table.
Pressure cuffs will be wrapped snugly around your arms, above knees, calves and ankles. The technician will inflate the cuffs, and sensors record the pulse waves. Let the technician know if the pressure from the inflated cuffs is uncomfortable.
Your blood pressures will be recorded at your arms and ankles. The ankle-brachial index, known as the ABI, is determined by the ratio between these pressures.
PAD is diagnosed if your ankle pressure is lower than your arm pressure. With severe narrowing, the ABI or ankle pressure may be half of your arm pressure. Your doctor may recommend additional diagnostic tests if the ABI is abnormal.