Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI)
What is Critical Limb Ischemia?
Critical limb ischemia (CLI) is the most advanced form of Peripheral Artery Disease and occurs when blood flow through an artery of the lower extremities becomes severely blocked. CLI is a painful condition that causes extreme discomfort in the feet and toes, even while at rest.
When left untreated, CLI can cause sores and wounds that are unable to heal due to reduced blood flow, eventually leading to gangrene (tissue death) and potentially amputation.
Avoiding Amputation
The development of minimally-invasive revascularization procedures provides an alternative to amputation- and an improved quality of life for patients suffering from CLI. Dr. Schirf is committed to amputation prevention through technology, treatments, education, and outreach. Unfortunately, many times CLI can reach irreversible levels where the only solution to avoid further heal complications (including death) is amputation of the affected limb. If you have any signs or symptoms of CLI, it is best to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Give us a call at the phone number for your preferred location to schedule an appointment or send a message through our Contact form today. Early diagnosis and treatment for PAD is the most important factor in avoiding critical limb ischemia.
What are the risk factors of Critical Limb Ischemia?
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- High Blood Pressure
- Obesity
- High Cholesterol
- Kidney Disease
- Anyone over 65 years old
- History of heart disease
- Family history of heart disease
How is Critical Limb Ischemia Diagnosed?
CLI is commonly diagnosed in one of two ways: an Ankle Brachial Index or Angiography.
Ankle Brachial Index: This test compares the blood pressure in your ankle of the suspected leg with the blood pressure in your arm. A significant difference in the two pressures might indicate a blockage exists somewhere in the leg.
Doppler Ultrasound: A test that uses high-frequency sound waves to measure blood flow rate in the veins.
Angiography: For this test, the doctor uses x-ray and dye injected through an IV to examine blood flow and look for blockages.a