Patient Roadmap for Endovascular Procedures

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This roadmap guides patients/caregivers through endovascular procedures for Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), a chronic inflammatory disease causing arterial plaque buildup. Preparation is crucial: undergoing detailed medical assessments, imaging like duplex ultrasound to map arterial disease, and critically, managing medications, especially blood thinners, under strict doctor guidance to avoid bleeding risks. Fasting before the procedure is also required.

On procedure day, expect monitoring (blood pressure, heart, oxygen), IV lines, potential conscious sedation, and sterile prep of the access site (commonly groin). A team 'timeout' ensures safety checks.

The procedure uses X-ray guidance (angiography) to navigate catheters and guide wires through arteries accessed, typically via the femoral artery. Techniques like angioplasty (balloon inflation), stenting (placing a mesh tube), or atherectomy (plaque removal) treat blockages. Anticoagulants prevent clotting. Radiation exposure is minimized.

Immediate recovery focuses on stopping bleeding at the access site, often requiring lying flat with the limb straight. Monitoring continues, especially circulation in the treated limb. Antiplatelet medication is vital if a stent was placed.

Discharge instructions cover wound care, activity limits, medication adherence (especially statins and antiplatelets), knowing warning signs, and follow-up appointments (often including ultrasound).

PAD is chronic. Long-term management involves controlling risk factors (diabetes, blood pressure, smoking cessation is key), taking medications like statins (for widespread arterial health beyond cholesterol), and regular exercise.

Crucial warning signs requiring immediate medical attention include significant access site bleeding/swelling/infection, or signs of acute limb ischemia: worsening pain (especially at rest), paleness, coldness, numbness, or weakness in the treated limb. Pseudoaneurysm (pulsing lump) is another sign to report.