What is Ankle-Brachial Index?
The ankle-brachial index test is a quick, painless, noninvasive way to check for peripheral artery disease (PAD) of the lower extremities. Peripheral artery disease is a condition in which the arteries in the legs or arms are narrowed or blocked, mostly by atherosclerotic plaque, leading to inadequate blood supply to the effected part. They may cause symptoms of legs pain called claudication and may cause chronic ulcer of the legs or loss limb. People with peripheral artery disease has higher chance of having the same disease in other part of circulation and are at a high risk of heart attack or stroke. The ankle-brachial index test compares the blood pressure measured at the ankle (Ankle) with the blood pressure measured from the arm (Brachial).
