Lower Extremity Arterial Occlusive Disease

Millions of Americans develop blocked arteries in their pelvis or legs that restrict the blood flow to their legs. Many patients with this peripheral artery disease complain of claudication, a pain in their calves or thighs that occurs with exertion. Some patients with more severe disease can develop gangrene in their feet. With a good physical exam and Doppler blood pressure measurements of the legs, the vascular surgeons at the GVC can determine the severity of the condition and start therapy.

Many patients are treated with medications and lifestyle changes – no more cigarettes, more exercise, healthier diet, and weight loss. For more severe cases, direct revascularization of the lower extremities is recommended. The vascular surgeons at GVC are expertly trained in performing surgical bypass procedures or angioplasty, stenting, and atherectomy (Silverhawk) techniques. The goal is to provide each patient with an effective, safe, and durable treatment to improve blood flow to the affected limb.

When there are no standard surgical or percutaneous procedures left, GVC still can offer treatment options. GVC’s physicians are currently investigators in clinical angiogenesis trials. This exciting research has promise in literally growing new blood vessels in the ischemic extremity.

Georgia Vascular Clinic (GVC), a pioneer in Atlanta vascular care since 1968, is committed to the diagnosis and expert treatment of all peripheral vascular conditions. The physicians at GVC offer all forms of vascular treatment—including medical management, endovascular technique, and open surgery—a distinction unique to board certified vascular surgeons. GVC is made up of three physicians and has office locations in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Blue Ridge, and Canton. The combined experience of its surgeons and clinical staff, along with its track record for state-of-the-art treatment options and clinical research, makes GVC second to none in the Atlanta area.