Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) occurs when arteries become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup, reducing blood flow to the legs and feet. This restricted circulation can lead to pain while walking, slow-healing wounds, and, in severe cases, an increased risk of limb amputation. PAD often develops gradually, and many people may not recognize the warning signs until the disease has progressed. Recent advancements in diagnosing and treating PAD are providing patients with more effective options for managing the condition.

Advanced Treatments for PAD

In Baton Rouge, where high rates of diabetes, smoking, and hypertension contribute to an elevated risk of PAD, early detection and treatment are critical in supporting positive patient outcomes. Individuals at risk can take proactive steps to protect their vascular health and maintain quality of life by seeking innovative diagnostic tools and improved treatment therapies offered at CVT Surgical Center.

Minimally Invasive Procedures for Treating PAD

Traditional surgical interventions for PAD, such as bypass surgery, are now being complemented with and, in many cases, replaced by minimally invasive endovascular treatments.These procedures restore blood flow with shorter recovery times, fewer complications, and better long-term outcomes. CVT’s state-of-the-art Endovascular Center offers cutting-edge technology to diagnose and treat PAD with exceptional precision.

Upgraded Endovascular Treatments Reduce Recurrence of Stenosis

• Traditional angioplasty now benefits from the use of drug-coated balloons that dilate the arteries to restore blood flow, while also releasing medication directly into the artery walls during the procedure. This prevents cell growth that can lead to re-narrowing of the artery.
• Drug-coated stents keep arteries open while delivering a slow release of medication that reduces inflammation and scarring inside the artery.

New Procedure Treats Complex PAD Cases

• Percutaneous Transmural Arterial Bypass (PTAB) procedures use stents rerouted through nearby veins to bypass the diseased artery and restore blood flow to the lower limbs.
• This approach works well for treating long segments of diseased arteries. It also offers a new minimally invasive option for patients who have already undergone failed endovascular procedures or that may not be a candidate for traditional bypass surgery.

Advanced Techniques to Remove Plaque Buildup in Arteries

• Laser atherectomy emits light energy from a laser attached to a catheter to heat up and breakdown plaque into small pieces that can be removed through the catheter.
• Rotational atherectomy, uses a small burr rotating at a high rate of speed to pulverize plaque deposits. This procedure is particularly beneficial for PAD patients with heavily calcified arteries, a common condition in individuals with diabetes.

Improved Imaging Technology to Detect PAD

The success of PAD treatments depends heavily on accurate diagnosis and monitoring. New imaging and diagnostic technologies are revolutionizing how PAD is detected and managed.

High-Resolution Imaging for Better Precision

• Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) provides detailed 3D images of arteries, allowing vascular specialists to precisely assess blockages and select the most effective treatment.
• Advanced imaging tools help identify subtle vascular changes before symptoms worsen, leading to earlier and more effective interventions.

Innovative Medications Reduce PAD Risks

While minimally invasive procedures are improving outcomes, new drug therapies are also playing a crucial role in managing PAD.

New Antiplatelet and Cholesterol-Lowering Medications

• Advances in antiplatelet therapy help prevent blood clots, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke in PAD patients.
• Newer cholesterol-lowering medications, like PCSK9 inhibitors, have been shown to significantly reduce plaque buildup in arteries beyond what traditional statins achieve.

The landscape of PAD treatment is evolving rapidly, offering new hope for individuals who are living with this condition. Minimally invasive procedures, advanced imaging, and innovative drug therapies,are making it easier than ever to manage PAD effectively and prevent severe complications. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of PAD, early detection and access to the latest treatments can make all the difference. With cutting-edge vascular care available at CVT in Baton Rouge, patients have more options than ever to maintain mobility, improve circulation, and enhance their overall health. Schedule an appointment today with one of our experienced vascular specialists.