Peripheral artery disease in the Greater Denver area is a growing concern, particularly among older adults and individuals with certain lifestyle or health-related risk factors. PAD is a circulatory condition in which the arteries that carry blood to your extremities—most often your legs—become narrowed or blocked. This condition is typically caused by atherosclerosis, the buildup of fatty deposits or plaque on arterial walls. While it shares similarities with coronary artery disease, PAD affects a different region of the body. In some cases, blood clots can also contribute to reduced blood flow, worsening symptoms.
PAD tends to develop slowly over decades and may initially show no symptoms at all. Early detection and careful monitoring can significantly improve outcomes and reduce complication risks such as ulcers, infections, or even limb loss.
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Understanding risk factors can help with prevention and early diagnosis of peripheral artery disease in the Greater Denver area. Common risk factors include:
High blood pressure
History of smoking
High cholesterol
Family history of heart disease
Physical inactivity
Diabetes
Obesity
Being older than age 55
Patients in these categories are highly encouraged to seek regular screening and vascular consultations. Request an appointment with one of our experienced vascular specialists serving the Greater Denver area.
Early detection is key to successful treatment of PAD. Symptoms usually appear when the arteries are significantly narrowed or blocked. These may include:
Since PAD symptoms often overlap with other conditions, a formal diagnosis is necessary. One common and non-invasive test is the ankle-brachial index (ABI), which compares blood pressure in your ankle and arm to assess blood flow.
Treatments for PAD depend on severity and the extent of symptoms. In many cases, lifestyle changes and medications are the first steps in managing the condition. Medication, exercise, quitting smoking, and other therapies may help patients with occasional symptoms and intermittent claudication.
When blockages are moderate and defined, angioplasty and stenting provide excellent benefits. A catheter equipped with a balloon is used to widen the narrowed artery. Once open, a stent (mesh-like metal sleeve) may be inserted to keep the artery patent.
These minimally invasive procedures allow for an outpatient experience and quicker recovery times. Our vascular team at CCVSA in the Greater Denver area is highly experienced in this advanced technique.
For more severe artery blockages that cannot be treated endovascularly, surgical bypass may be the most effective path. This involves creating a new channel for blood flow using your own vein or a synthetic graft. The new vessel is attached around the blocked artery to restore proper circulation and prevent complications like amputation. Post-surgery, patients may stay in the hospital for about a week, with full recovery lasting six to eight weeks.
Colorado Cardiovascular Surgical Associates is a trusted leader in the diagnosis and treatment of peripheral artery disease in the Greater Denver area. We offer individualized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, leveraging the latest advancements in vascular medicine backed by decades of clinical expertise.
Our team is proud to support patients across Colorado, offering empathetic care, cutting-edge technology, and convenient access to post-treatment resources. We also encourage active patient engagement through our network. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for insights, updates, and community support.
Ready to begin your personalized care journey? Access helpful materials such as insurance guidance, procedure instructions, and wellness tips on our Patient Resources Page.
Learn more about the comprehensive care available at CCVSA by exploring our Vascular Services or scheduling a consultation with one of our experienced vascular surgeons today.
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