Vascular Disorders & Problems of peripheral Circulation pt.1

What are key components of a cardiovascular health history assessment?

Family history, past medical history, past surgical history, medications, activity, exercise.

What is the significance of the ankle-brachial index in cardiovascular assessment?

An ankle-brachial index of < 0.9 is indicative of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).

Describe the difference between acute and chronic ischemia in PAD.

Acute ischemia is characterized by sudden ischemia and tissue death, while chronic ischemia involves collateral circulation leading to slow ischemia and tissue death.

Name two major risks for developing Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).

Age (65 and older) and smoking.

Identify two clinical manifestations of Peripheral Arterial Disease.

Hair loss distal to occlusion and changes in skin color such as elevational pallor or dependent rubor.

What is critical limb ischemia and its major symptoms?

Pain at rest, non-healing ulcers, and gangrene.

What condition is represented by intermittent claudication?

Cramp-like pain with exertion that is relieved with rest.

List two diagnostic studies used for assessing PAD.

Doppler ultrasound and invasive digital angiography.

What are common pharmacologic treatments for PAD?

Cilostazol (vasodilator), ASA (Aspirin) & Plavix (antiplatelet agents), and statins.

What is the purpose of smoking cessation in managing PAD?

To reduce vasoconstriction and overall cardiovascular risk.

What is Raynaud's phenomenon?

Initial white fingertips due to vasospasm, followed by blue when sustained, and red when blood flow returns.

In what demographics is Thromboangiitis Obliterans (Buerger’s Disease) most common?

Most common in males aged 25-45 and is primarily caused by smoking.

How is Raynaud's disease managed?

Avoiding stimuli that provoke vasoconstriction, dressing warmly, and calcium-channel blockers.

What are the clinical manifestations of Upper Extremity Arterial Occlusive Disease?

Arm pain and fatigue with exertion, dizziness, vertigo, ataxia, syncope, and bilateral visual disturbances.

What is the goal of post-operative care in patients with PAD?

To monitor complications, maintain tissue integrity, and provide pain relief.