Abstract

Peripheral arterial disease is one of the most prevalent conditions, and it frequently associated with an increased risk of vascular disease in other parts of the body and substantial functional limitation. The initial disease process results in peripheral arterial disfunction causes turbulent flow in the arteries supplying the muscles of the lower extremities. Impaired endothelial function and limited blood flow results in an oxygen supply-demand mismatch. Early and adequate diagnosis is important for improving the patient`s quality of life and for reducing the risk of secondary vascular attacks. The presence of critical ischemia indicates the need for prompt revascularization because of high risk of limb amputation. In the healthy condition is ABI-index more than 0.90, whereas in PAD is less than 0.90 at rest with a further decrease after exercise.