PADnet

Photograph of PADnet testing cuffs

What Is PAD?

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) occurs when there is a buildup of cholesterol and plaque in ther arteries of the lower extremeties, causing decreased blood flow to the legs and feet.

Are You At Risk?

  • Men and women ages 65 years or older.
  • Patients 50 years or older with a history of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or smoking.

Signs & Symptoms

  • Pain in the legs brought on by walking and relieved with rest.
  • Pain in the legs at rest due to poor circulation.
  • A poorly healing wound on lower extremity.
  • Injury to lower limb or foot involving blood vessels.
  • Discoloration of toes and feet.

What is PADnet?

A PADnet Arterial test can provide early detection of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) when treatment options are broadest (incorporating both lifestyle modification, and non-invasive and invasive therapeutic options).

The PADnet detects blockages in arteries and the quality of blood flow using Pulse Volume Recordings (PVRs) and segmental blood pressure measurements.

Before Your Test

Getting ready for this test requires little effort. You will be asked to remove clothing that covers your arms and legs, keeping your undergarments on. You may be asked to remove your shoes and socks as well. A gown maybe provided, or you may bring shorts to wear. This test usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. Be sure to allow extra time to check-in.

  • Do not smoke or use tobacco 30 minutes prior to your PADnet exam. Smoking constricts the peripheral arteries and can interfere with the results.
  • If you think you may not be able to tolerate lying flat on the exam table for the test, please share this with your provider.

During Your Test

You will lie down on the exam table. Pressure cuffs will be wrapped snugly around your arms, above knees, calves, ankles. The technician will inflate the cuffs, and the sensors in the machine will record the pulse waves that correspond to each beat of your heart.

Blood pressure will be recorded at your arms and ankles. The Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) is determined by the ratio between these pressures. You may be diagnosed with PAD ifyour ankle pressure is 99% or lower than your arm pressure. With severe narrowing, the ABI may be less than 50%.

If the ABI and/or waveforms are abnormal, your doctor may recommend additional diagnostic tests.

After Your Test

You may return to your normal routine right after the test. Your doctor will let you know when the results are ready.