The Ankle Brachial Index has been shown to be a specific and sensitive metric for the diagnosis of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). 75% of patients with PAD do not have symptoms, and early diagnosis can lead to timely treatment, reducing surgery and hospitalization.

Because the ABI test is quick and non-invasive, we test our patient’s ABI so we can be aware of their arterial health and plan treatments accordingly.

The ankle-brachial index test is non-invasive and usually takes only a few minutes. Patients lie on a table while inflatable cuffs and an ultrasound device are used to listen and measure the pulse in the upper arms and then again in the ankles.

Using these numbers, the ABI can be calculated by diving the blood pressure in your ankle by the blood pressure in your upper arm. An ABI of 1.0 or greater usually indicates that your blood is flowing normally and there is no blockage. An ABI of less than 0.9 can signal a blockage and indicate the presence of PAD. In this case, Dr. Jenkins will discuss possible next steps to help correct or improve circulation in the feet and legs.