Peripheral Vascular Disease

Abstract

This article, in three parts, is about peripheral vascular disease. The topic has appeared on medicine and surgery examination papers regularly over the last few years. Examiners have become increasingly concerned about the content of many answers, the number of similar inaccuracies that have appeared and, in particular, the confusion between arterial disease and venous disorders, their treatment and management. Concern was also expressed at the disturbing tendency for amputation to be quoted as the only form of treatment available. The Education and Research Board takes the view that it is essential that therapists have a thorough, up-to-date understanding of the symptoms, management and prognosis of vascular disease, particularly since these conditions are often present in patients whose primary referral may have been for other reasons. In this article the topic of amputation is not considered in depth since this is considered to be only one option — a last resort in the range of treatments available. It is hoped that this article will assist students and occupational therapists alike to ensure that their knowledge and approach to this topic is up to date. — L S Phillips, Chairman, Examinations Standing Group (England, Ireland & Wales).