Which imaging study is typically used to evaluate peripheral artery disease?

The preferred imaging study to evaluate peripheral artery disease (PAD) is ultrasound, specifically duplex ultrasound. This technique is non-invasive and offers real-time visualization of blood flow in the peripheral arteries. It allows for the assessment of both the structure of the arterial walls and the velocity of blood flow, which are crucial for diagnosing narrowing or blockage due to atherosclerosis, the primary cause of PAD.

Duplex ultrasound also helps to identify the hemodynamic significance of any detected lesions by measuring the peak systolic velocities. This can help differentiate between significant stenosis and normal arterial flow. Given these capabilities, ultrasound is often the first-line imaging modality for assessing PAD due to its accessibility, safety, and effectiveness in providing both anatomic and functional information.

While CT angiography is also used in some cases for a more detailed view of the arteries, particularly in planning for surgical interventions, it involves exposure to radiation and the administration of contrast dye, which might not be suitable for all patients. MRI and X-ray are less commonly used for this specific purpose because they do not provide the same level of detail regarding blood flow and vascular structure that ultrasound does.