The solution to severe and chronic leg pain could be an appropriate stent placed through pinhole surgery, says Interventional Radiologist, Dr. Murali.
If you are a smoker, a diabetic or suffer from high cholesterol then you are in danger of contracting Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD). This is a narrowing of your arteries in one region where the consequences are felt in multiple areas. If you are suffering from PVD you will experience pain on walking, and the distance you can cover keeps reducing over time. Subsequently you will experience severe pain even at rest. If not treated properly this condition can lead to ulcers, infections, gangrene and loss of limb.

Looking beyond a Bypass
PVD is identified by clinicalevaluation followed by Doppler screening, and confirmed by MR Angiography or CT Angiography. Depending on the extent and severity of blocks, you may require bypass surgery. Now you have an option. Non-surgical treatment of PVD is possible.

Through a small pinhole in the groin the blocked vessel is accessed and dilated with a balloon. A stent may be deployed if required. Once the block is opened up blood flow to the legs improve and you will start walking better. You will need to be on anti-platelet therapy following the procedure and advised to walk regularly.

Pinhole can prevent amputation
In fact such procedures prevent amputation to a great extent if identified and treated early.

Diabetics of long standing should see that their sugar is under proper control and should get their vascular evaluation done regularly. Onset of pain in legs during walking should not be ignored and you should attend to it immediately.

For performing peripheral angioplasty and stenting, a good digital angiography lab with adequate trained personnel is a must. Early intervention saves limb amputation and puts you back on your toes!

Dr. K. Murali, MD.P.D.C.C.
Interventional Radiologist