Ankelarmbågsindex

Ankelarmbågsindex, also known as the ankle-brachial index (ABI), is a non-invasive test used to assess the blood flow in the lower extremities, particularly the legs. It is commonly used to diagnose peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs. The test involves measuring the blood pressure in the ankle and the arm using a sphygmomanometer. The ABI is calculated by dividing the ankle blood pressure by the arm blood pressure. A normal ABI is typically 1.0 or higher, indicating adequate blood flow. An ABI of less than 0.9 is considered abnormal and may indicate PAD. The test is quick, painless, and does not require any special preparation. However, it should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and tests, as it may not always accurately reflect the severity of PAD. The ABI is an important tool in the diagnosis and management of PAD, helping to identify patients who may benefit from further evaluation or treatment.