PAD, CLTI, and Amputation: The Urgent Need for Early Diagnosis and Revascularization

They told you amputation was the only option. We disagree.

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) affects 8–20 million Americans and occurs when plaque narrows the arteries in the legs, reducing blood flow. When PAD advances, it can become Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia (CLTI) — a severe stage where blood flow is critically reduced, leading to rest pain, non-healing ulcers, and a high risk of amputation if circulation is not restored.

The Diabetes Connection

Diabetes dramatically increases the stakes:

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

• A lower limb is amputated every 30 seconds somewhere in the world as a result of diabetes and PAD.

• Of the 2 million Americans living with amputation, more than half are due to PAD or diabetes.

• Five-year survival after PAD-related amputation is only about 50%.

Without timely revascularization, up to 40% of patients with CLTI may require major amputation within one year.

The Diagnostic Gap

Many patients never receive the advanced vascular evaluation they need. Recent studies show that over half of patients undergoing amputation never had a diagnostic angiogram or vascular procedure beforehand, and only about 50% ever receive a simple Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test.

TCCE’s Advanced Approach

At Tulsa Cardiovascular Center of Excellence, 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 complex below-the-knee and below-the-ankle disease that may be missed on standard testing.

Once diagnosed, we specialize in minimally invasive endovascular revascularization — angioplasty, stenting, atherectomy, and other advanced techniques — all performed in our outpatient setting with same-day discharge. These procedures restore blood flow, promote wound healing, and help prevent amputation for patients who have been told they have “no options.”

Limb Salvage Starts Here at TCCE

Saving your life and leg begins with saving your foot.

If you or your patients are experiencing leg pain at rest, non-healing foot ulcers, or have diabetes and PAD risk factors, early evaluation is critical. We work closely with referring physicians, podiatrists, and hospitals to provide coordinated, timely care.

Schedule a vascular assessment today:

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