Leg Artery Emergencies: Acute Arterial Occlusion

Acute arterial occlusion is a serious condition that occurs when blood flow in a leg artery stops suddenly. It is more likely to occur in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD is caused when leg arteries are narrowed, reducing blood flow. If blood flow to the toe, foot, or leg is completely blocked, the tissue begins to die (gangrene). If this happens, you need medical care right away to restore blood flow and save the leg. 

When Do You Need Emergency Care?

Call your doctor or go to the emergency room right away if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Sudden, severe pain

• Pale or blue skin

• Skin cold to the touch

• Problems moving

• No pulse where you used to be able to feel one

How Is Acute Arterial Occlusion Diagnosed?

Certain tests may be done to determine if you have acute arterial occlusion. Common tests include:

• Ankle-brachial index (ABI): The blood pressure in the ankle is compared to the blood pressure in the arm.

• Duplex ultrasound: Harmless sound waves are used to create images of blood flow in the legs.

• Arteriography: Contrast medium (x-ray dye) is injected into the artery using a catheter (thin, flexible tube). This allows blood vessels to show up when x-rays are taken.

How Is Acute Arterial Occlusion Treated?

Possible treatments for acute arterial occlusion include:

• Dissolving or removing a blood clot: A catheter may be inserted into an artery in the groin to dissolve the clot. The catheter is then used to deliver “clot-busting” medication, which dissolves the clot. Or surgery may be done to remove the clot. An incision is made in the artery at the blocked area. The clot is then removed.

• Angioplasty: A tiny, uninflated balloon is delivered to the narrowed area by catheter. It is then inflated to widen the artery. Finally, the balloon is deflated and withdrawn.

• Stenting: After angioplasty, a stent (tiny wire mesh tube) may be placed in the artery to help hold it open. The stent is also delivered by a catheter.

• Debridement: Diseased tissue is removed. This allows healthy tissue to heal.

• Endarterectomy: An incision is made in the artery at the blocked area. The material that blocks the artery is then removed from artery walls.

• Peripheral bypass surgery: A natural or artificial graft is used to bypass the blocked area.

How Can Acute Arterial Occlusion Be Prevented?

Know the signs and symptoms of an acute arterial occlusion. Check your feet daily for wounds, sores, blisters, and color changes.