Overview

Evaluation & Diagnosis

Treatment Options

Find a Physician

Locations

Make an Appointment

For Physicians

Treatment Options

There are several treatments available for patients with PVD, from medications to surgery. In addition, new technology is available to treat patients using nonsurgical methods, many of which can be performed on an outpatient basis, such as stents and the removal of blockages. Your physician will determine which one is right for you.

• Medications
  Your doctor may recommend certain medications to treat high blood pressure (anti-hypertensive medications) or high cholesterol. An antiplatelet medication, such as aspirin or clopidogrel (Plavix), may be prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Cilostazol (Pletal) may be prescribed to improve walking distance. This medication has been shown to help people with intermittent claudication exercise longer before they develop leg pain and to walk longer before they must stop because of the pain. Your doctor will determine which medications are right for you.

• Interventions
  More advanced PVD may be treated with interventional procedures such as:
• Angioplasty - widens or clears the blocked vessel
• Stent - a tiny mesh device that supports the cleared vessel and keeps it open
• Atherectomy or thrombectomy - removes the blockage or obstruction
• Lifestyle Changes
  Additionally, your doctor will talk to you about making lifestyle changes. Some changes you can make to manage your condition include:
• Quitting smoking. Ask your doctor about smoking cessation programs available in your community.
• Exercising. Begin a regular exercise program, such as walking, which can aid the treatment of PVD. Patients who walk regularly can expect a marked improvement in the distance they are able to walk before experiencing leg pain.
• Eating a high-fiber, low-fat, low-cholesterol, low-sodium diet. Limit fat to 30 percent of your total daily calories. Saturated fat should account for no more than 7 percent of your total calories. Avoid trans fats, including products made with partially-hydrogenated and hydrogenated vegetable oils. If you are overweight, losing weight will help you lower your total cholesterol and raise your HDL (good) cholesterol. A registered dietitian can help you make the right dietary changes.
• Controlling diabetes, including seeing your doctor regularly and taking all medications as prescribed.
• Controlling your blood pressure, including following the advice listed in this section.

[top of page]