Atherosclerosis is defined as an accumulation of lipid, fibrous, and inflammatory plaque between the intimal and medial layers of the vessel wall. Atherosclerosis of the noncoronary arteries is referred to as PAD. It predominantly affects large and medium-sized arteries causing decreased blood flow due to luminal narrowing. On few occasions, atherosclerotic plaques may undergo rupture or erosion causing thrombosis and abrupt cessation of blood flow in the affected vascular bed resulting in acute limb ischemia. The risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis in the peripheral arteries are similar to those for atherosclerotic coronary artery disease.
Promoting an increased awareness and standardized approaches in diagnosing and treating peripheral artery disease