Peripheral Arterial Disease
Peripheral Arterial Disease or PAD is a common circulatory problem that leads to a reduction in blood flow to the extremities, most commonly to the legs, which can lead to severe pain when walking limiting quality of life. In advanced cases, it can lead to gangrene and amputation. When medications and walking programs are unsuccessful, a peripheral angiogram and intervention may be recommended.
Dr. Zakir discusses PAD in the following videos:
Peripheral Angiogram
A peripheral angiogram is performed similar to a cardiac catheterization but the arteries that supply blood flow to feet are studied instead of the heart. A small catheter is placed in either the radial artery or the femoral artery and pictures are taken. If there are blockages present, an intervention may be required to alleviate pain or allow healing of ulcers or wounds.
Dr. Zakir discusses angiograms in the following video:
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Intervention
Dr. Zakir, Director of The Peripheral Vascular Program at Saint Peter’s University Hospital has successfully treated hundreds of patients suffering with PAD with a high success rate. He has been on the forefront of using the latest technology to improve outcomes and holds courses to train other physicians. An intervention to improved blood flow usually involves angioplasty, stenting and or atherectomy (removing or breaking up plaque).
In up to 40% of patients with PAD, the arteries may be totally blocked, called chronic total occlusions (CTOs). CTOs can decrease the success rate and increase complications. Many patients are referred for surgical bypass in these situations. However, Dr. Zakir has been extremely successful in treating patients with CTOs and is one of the few physicians in the state that utilizes a novel treatment called lightbox technology to treat patients with CTOs.
