Vascular Medicine Conference-CVC 2026

Lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD) is a type of peripheral artery disease that impacts the arteries in your legs. When blood flow is reduced due to a buildup of fatty plaques or blood clots, it can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like leg pain, cramping, numbness, and claudication, especially when you're walking. In more severe cases, it can escalate to critical limb ischemia, which may cause rest pain, ulcers, or even gangrene, putting the limb at risk.

To diagnose LEAD, doctors typically use methods like duplex ultrasound, CT angiography, MR angiography, or conventional angiography to assess any narrowing of the arteries and plan the best course of action. Catching it early is key, as it allows for timely management and helps prevent further complications.

When it comes to treatment, options include making lifestyle changes, participating in supervised exercise programs, taking medications, and for more serious cases, undergoing endovascular or surgical revascularization. Acting quickly can improve blood flow, alleviate symptoms, and maintain limb function, which greatly enhances the quality of life and long-term vascular health for those dealing with LEAD.