Limb Ischemia
Limb ischemia occurs when blood flow to a limb suddenly decreases. It is the most severe form of peripheral artery disease (PAD). If not treated, it may lead to amputation.
Symptoms of Limb Ischemia
Most of the symptoms of limb ischemia affect the legs and feet:
- Pain or numbness in the feet or toes
- Open sores or skin infections
- Ulcers that will not heal
- Gangrene, or dry, black skin on the legs or feet
Treatment of Limb Ischemia
Limb ischemia is a serious condition that must be treated immediately. Blood flow to the affected area must be restored promptly if the limb is to be preserved. Blood clots are the most common causes of limb ischemia, and nonsurgical treatment may include the following:
- Angioplasty, using a balloon to open a blocked artery
- Stents to prop an artery open after angioplasty
- Laser atherectomy, using a laser probe to dissolve small bits of plaque
- Directional atherectomy, using a catheter with a rotating blade to cut away plaque
If the ischemia is caused by blockages that do not respond to the procedures listed above, surgery may be required to create a bypass that restores blood flow to the affected area.
TREATMENT LOCATIONS
HOSPITALS
Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center
6565 Fannin St.
Houston, TX 77030
713.441.2894
Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital
18300 Houston Methodist Dr.
Nassau Bay, TX 77058
281.333.8899
Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital
4401 Garth Rd.
Baytown, TX 77521
281-428-2273
Houston Methodist West Hospital
18500 Katy Frwy.
Houston, TX 77094
832.522.5522
Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital
18220 State Hwy. 249
Houston, TX 77070
281.737.2500
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital
16655 Southwest Frwy.
Sugar Land, TX 77479
281.274.7500
Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital
17201 Interstate 45 S.
The Woodlands, TX 77385
936.270.2000