Non-Invasive Testing:
Ankle/Brachial Index (also known as ABI)
ANKLE/BRACHIAL INDEX
(also known as an ABI)
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF AN ANKLE/BRACHIAL
INDEX? An Ankle/Brachial Index test is
used to diagnose for Peripheral Artery Disease. Peripheral vascular disease
affects a large portion of the general population, more so in patients with
known cardiac disease. You may have talked to your physician about swelling,
redness, pain or cramping you are experiencing when you exercise or even
while at rest. This pain can be intermittent or constant.
WHO ADMINISTERS THE STRESS TEST?
A
registered vascular
ultrasound technologist administers
this test.
HOW LONG WILL THE TEST TAKE?
The total amount of time this test will take is approximately one-half
hour.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY TEST? No preparation is necessary.
WHAT WILL I
EXPERIENCE DURING THE TEST? Blood pressure cuffs are placed
in various positions on your arms and legs and pressures are taken in these
areas. The patient may experience some discomfort during the inflation of
each cuff, similar to when a standard blood pressure measurement is taken.
