Vascular Medicine Conference-CVC 2026

Peripheral arterial embolism happens when a blood clot, often coming from the heart, travels through the bloodstream and gets stuck in a peripheral artery. This can lead to a sudden drop or complete halt in blood flow. Patients typically show signs like pain, pale skin, lack of pulse, tingling sensations, paralysis, and cold limbs, which are classic indicators of acute limb ischemia. Quick diagnosis is crucial to avoid tissue death and the potential loss of a limb.

To diagnose this condition, healthcare providers rely on a combination of clinical evaluations and imaging techniques like duplex ultrasound, CT angiography, or MR angiography to pinpoint the embolus and check blood flow. Treatment options vary based on the severity and location of the blockage and may include urgent anticoagulation, thrombolysis, endovascular retrieval, or surgical embolectomy. Acting swiftly can restore blood circulation, ease symptoms, and significantly enhance limb preservation and overall patient outcomes.