ankelbrakialindex

The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) is a non-invasive test used to assess the blood flow in the lower extremities, particularly in the legs and feet. It is commonly used in the diagnosis and management of peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition characterized by narrowed arteries that can restrict blood flow to the limbs. The ABI is calculated by comparing the blood pressure in the ankle to the blood pressure in the arm. A normal ABI is typically 1.0 or higher, indicating adequate blood flow. An ABI below 0.9 is considered abnormal and may indicate significant narrowing of the arteries. The test is performed using a sphygmomanometer to measure blood pressure at the ankle and the arm. The ABI is a valuable tool for clinicians in evaluating the severity of PAD and guiding treatment decisions. It is particularly useful in patients with symptoms such as claudication (pain in the legs during exercise) and critical limb ischemia (severe reduction in blood flow leading to tissue damage). The ABI test is quick, painless, and does not require any special equipment, making it a widely used diagnostic tool in clinical practice.