Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a widespread condition with potentially serious complications. PVD is caused by insufficient tissue perfusion (blood flow) which can be either chronic or acute. Many people live daily with chronic PVD, however acute situations can require emergency intervention.

Peripheral vascular disease is primarily the result of atherosclerosis which is a narrowing of the arteries caused by a buildup of plaque in the arterial wall. Acute thrombosis of the artery can occur when blood clots, or emboli, lodge in the artery, causing a disruption of blood flow. Once flow is disrupted, the blockage can propagate due to stagnation of blood flow.

Acute blockages tend to occur at artery bifurcations (junctions) or where narrowing occurs. The most common site of emboli is the femoral artery bifuraction. Other locations include the iliac arteries, the aorta and popliteal arteries of the lower limbs.

The risk factors of PVD include smoking and diabetes.  Patients with coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, stroke and kidney disease may also have a higher risk of developing PVD.

Symptoms of PVD include pain while walking a short distance (intermittent claudication) that is usually relieved when sitting or standing. However, in more serious conditions, pain can occur while resting (Ischemic rest pain). Other signs of PVD can include paralysis, pain and changes in skin color and texture.

Chronic PVD can be treated surgically, either as an open surgical procedure such as a bypass, or by angioplasty (PTA). During a bypass procedure, the surgeon places a synthetic graft or native vessel to direct blood flow around the diseased segment. In angioplasty, the physician inserts a balloon catheter into the artery and expands the restrictive plaque by inflating the balloon at high pressure.

Acute PVD can be treated by thrombolytic drug therapy or surgery. Surgical removal of blood clots can be performed using a balloon embolectomy catheter that is placed in the vessel. The catheter is passed through the clot and the balloon is inflated. As the catheter is withdrawn, the balloon pulls the clot through the vessel and out a small incision, thereby restoring blood flow. The balloon catheter embolectomy procedure is used most commonly in the iliac, femoral or popliteal arteries. It is also frequently used to remove clots from access grafts of hemodialysis patients.

Illustration of balloon catheter removing clot from vessel

Applied Medical develops and markets a number of products used by surgeons and interventional radiologists to treat peripheral vascular disease. Applied’s Syntel^® embolectomy and thrombectomy catheters are the leading non-latex catheters used to remove clots from arteries and dialysis access grafts. Latex balloons have the potential for serious reactions in latex sensitized patients, and Applied is on the forefront to remove latex from the hospital environment. Applied also manufactures a wide range of atraumatic vascular clips and clamps. The low profile Stealth^® clamps feature disposable padded inserts to minimize vessel trauma while maximizing traction. Stealth’s low profile design also provides improved visibility for the surgeon.