Semin intervent Radiol 2023; 40(02): 119-128
DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-57257
Review Article

Medical Management of Peripheral Artery Disease

Alexander E. Sullivan
1   Division of Cardiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
,
Joshua A. Beckman
1   Division of Cardiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
› Author Affiliations

Abstract

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common type of atherosclerotic disease of the lower extremities associated with reduced quality of life and ambulatory capacity. Major adverse cardiovascular events and limb amputations are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in this population. Optimal medical therapy is therefore critical in these patients to prevent adverse events. Risk factor modifications, including blood pressure control and smoking cessation, in addition to antithrombotic agents, peripheral vasodilators, and supervised exercise therapy are key pillars of medical therapy. Revascularization procedures represent key touch points between patients and health care providers and serve as opportunities to optimize medical therapy and improve long-term patency rates and outcomes. This review summarizes the aspects of medical therapy that all providers should be familiar with when caring for patients with PAD in the peri-revascularization period.



Publication History

Article published online:
16 June 2023

© 2023. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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