Arterial hardening in the legs, also known as peripheral artery disease (PAD),refers to the stiffening of arteries in the legs due to the narrowing or blockage of the arteries. The primary cause of this condition is the narrowing of arteries, often attributed to atherosclerosis, which is the formation of atheromatous plaques in the arteries.
The term "leg artery pain" refers to the pain that arises from the narrowing or blockage of the leg's arteries, leading to discomfort that increases with walking.
The symptoms of leg artery hardening, also known as peripheral artery disease (PAD),involve a reduction or blockage of blood flow in the arteries of the legs. As a result, symptoms such as pain, cramping, numbness, fatigue, and swelling may occur in the legs. Serious healing issues can also arise in wounds caused by the narrowing of leg arteries with atheromatous plaques.
Yes, leg artery hardening, caused by atheromatous plaques narrowing the arteries in the legs, can lead to a decrease in blood flow to the leg and foot. This reduction in blood flow can result in symptoms such as leg pain, difficulty walking, and an inability to walk long distances in affected individuals.
In cases of arterial hardening in the legs and arterial blockages due to diabetes, angiography methods (Balloon/Stent) are performed without surgery. The treatment is conducted by entering through the groin artery or the arteries in the ankle. The duration of the procedure varies between 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the level and length of the blockage.
Thanks to these up-to-date and advanced treatments, amputation rates have significantly decreased, preventing the need for leg or foot amputations and facilitating the healing of non-healing wounds. Patients are usually discharged on the same day or the next day after treatment for arterial hardening in the legs or feet. The majority of procedures are performed under local anesthesia.
In the case of arterial hardening in the legs, lifestyle changes such as limiting alcohol and smoking, engaging in regular walking, adhering to a dietary program, and, when necessary, medication under doctor supervision should be implemented. In severe cases where arterial hardening progresses to complete blockage, surgical intervention (bypass surgery) may be required.
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Prof. Dr. Sezai AydınGeneral Surgery Turkey
PROF. DR. SEZAI AYDIN
