Critical Limb-Threatening Ischemia (CLTI) and Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Hope and Action for Limb Salvage

They told you amputation was the only option. We disagree. At Tulsa Cardiovascular Center of Excellence (TCCE), we specialize in advanced endovascular revascularization to restore blood flow and prevent amputation in patients with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) and its most severe form, Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia (CLTI).

Understanding PAD and CLTI

PAD occurs when plaque narrows the arteries in the legs, reducing blood flow. It affects 12–20% of Americans over age 60, yet up to 50% of people with PAD have no obvious symptoms until the disease progresses.

CLTI is the advanced, limb-threatening stage of PAD. Severe blockages cause rest pain, non-healing ulcers, or gangrene. Without timely revascularization, up to 40% of patients with CLTI may require amputation within one year.

The Diabetes Connection

• Over 30 million Americans have diabetes.

• One in three people over age 50 with diabetes likely has PAD.

• Every 30 seconds, a lower limb is lost to amputation as a result of diabetes-related complications.

• Of the roughly 2 million Americans living with amputation, 54% are due to PAD or diabetes.

• For patients with diabetes who undergo a lower-extremity amputation, up to 55% will require amputation of the second leg within 2–3 years.

  
  

The TCCE Difference: Endovascular Revascularization for Limb Salvage

We perform complete bilateral lower extremity arterial ultrasound, including detailed evaluation of the pedal arteries and pedal acceleration time (PAT) assessment when clinically indicated. This precision imaging helps us identify and successfully treat complex below-the-knee and below-the-ankle blockages that many centers find challenging.

Our approach is focused on minimally invasive endovascular revascularization — performed entirely in our outpatient setting with same-day discharge. Procedures such as angioplasty, stenting, atherectomy, and drug-coated balloons are used to restore blood flow, promote wound healing, and preserve limbs.

Limb Salvage Starts Here at TCCE

Saving your life and leg begins with saving your foot.

We work closely with podiatrists, wound-care specialists, and referring hospitals to provide coordinated, compassionate care. Early evaluation and expert endovascular intervention can dramatically improve outcomes and quality of life.

Take the Next Step

If you or a loved one are experiencing leg pain at rest, non-healing foot ulcers, or have been told amputation may be needed, schedule a vascular assessment today.

(918) 943-5303 | www.tulsacardiovascularcenter.com

Outpatient excellence. National-level limb salvage. Right here in Tulsa.

Medically reviewed by: Matthew J. Comstock, DO, FACC, FSCAI | Last reviewed: April 2026