Ankle Brachial Pressure Index Measurement Research Articles

Clinimetrics of the Lanarkshire Oximetry Index for patients with leg ulcers: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) measurement has long been considered the gold standard of vascular assessment for people with lower limb ulceration. Despite this, only around 15% of patients in the United Kingdom who require an ABPI measurement undergo the assessment. The Lanarkshire Oximetry Index (LOI) is a cheaper and arguably more accessible approach to vascular assessment and was initially proposed as an alternative to the ABPI in 2000. No synthesis of evidence related to the LOI has been performed since its introduction into the literature. Primary studies were sought to determine the clinimetric properties of the LOI and its level of agreement with ABPI assessments. Systematic searches of MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, BNI, ProQuest Health and Medicine, Science Direct, Google Scholar and the British Library (online search) were conducted. Reference lists of identified studies were also reviewed to identify additional studies. Three primary studies met the inclusion criteria, reporting data from 307 patients and 584 limbs assessed using both the LOI and ABPI. All three studies reported fair to moderate kappa values for interrater reliability (κ = 0.290-0.747) and statistically significant positive correlation coefficients (r = 0.37, p < 0.001 in two studies) between the LOI and ABPI. The combined data from the three studies indicated a sensitivity of 52% (41.78-62.1, 95% confidence interval [CI]) and specificity of 96.08% (93.4-97.9, 95% CI) for the LOI using the ABPI as a reference. Additional data are required to indicate the safety of the LOI in practice. Data are also required to determine if the LOI is more acceptable to clinicians compared to the ABPI and whether there are any barriers/enablers to its implementation in practice. Given the relatively low specificity of the LOI, it may be beneficial to combine measurement of the LOI with a subjective clinical risk assessment tool to improve the sensitivity of this alternative approach to vascular assessment.

OP83 Diagnostic Accuracy And Cost Effectiveness Of Automated Ankle Brachial Pressure Index Measurement For Peripheral Arterial Disease In People With Leg Ulceration

IntroductionLeg ulcers are usually treated with compression therapy unless there is evidence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Compression may lead to vascular complications in people with PAD. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important to ensure the best patient outcomes. PAD is usually assessed using a manual ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI). Automated devices may reduce time to diagnosis and treatment of leg ulcers. This study investigated the diagnostic accuracy, clinical effectiveness, and cost effectiveness of automated ABPI measurement, compared with manual doppler testing, to detect PAD in people with leg ulcers.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review of studies of any design assessing automated devices in any population. Meta-analyses were conducted where possible. A decision tree and Markov model was used to capture lifetime costs, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), and cost effectiveness from a UK National Health Service perspective. Sensitivity analyses captured the uncertainty surrounding model assumptions and probabilistic sensitivity analyses described parameter uncertainty. Value of information analysis was conducted to identify future research priorities.ResultsA total of 22 studies provided diagnostic accuracy data for five automated devices, but there were no studies in people with leg ulcers. Meta-analysis of 12 studies demonstrated a pooled sensitivity of 64 percent (95% confidence interval [CI]: 57, 71) and a specificity of 96 percent (95% CI: 92, 98) for detecting PAD. Automated devices were cheaper to complete due to shorter test times, but the increased risk of inappropriate or delayed treatment due to inaccurate test results offset the cost savings and reduced the QALYs for automated devices.ConclusionsGiven the current limited evidence base, automated devices would only be cost effective if they can demonstrate substantial reductions in time to diagnosis in clinical practice. Value of information analysis identified the following research priorities: (i) to determine diagnostic accuracy in a population with leg ulcers; (ii) to determine the impact of test results on ulcer healing times, and (iii) to determine the risk of providing inappropriate treatment based on inaccurate test results.

VENUM (Vascular Education iN Undergraduate Medicine): a multicentre evaluation of undergraduate vascular education in the UK.

Vascular surgery is a recognised surgical subspecialty covering an array of circulatory conditions predominately affecting geriatric and diabetic patients. As such, a wide breadth of clinicians will see patients with vascular pathologies, but it is unclear how detailed their knowledge base is. Key to this is the education of medical students, which has been poorly documented during undergraduate training in the UK. VENUM aimed to establish students' perceptions of vascular surgery and their confidence in performing vascular objective structured clinical examination (OCSE) skills. During the academic year of 2022/2023, final-year medical students were invited to complete a JISC survey (collaborative authorship). Seventy-seven research leads were recruited to disseminate the survey. Quantitative and thematic analysis was used to assess the data. In total, 240 final-year medical students completed the survey (54% female; 26 medical schools represented). Forty-five per cent of students reported never having had a vascular placement, 24% had never completed a vascular-focused clinical examination and 26% reported low confidence in performing ankle brachial pressure index measurement. An assessment of peripheral arterial disease morbidity was answered correctly in 17% of respondents compared with 92% for angina (chi-square test p<0.001). Students perceived the specialty to be non-inclusive and that early exposure to vascular surgery was required for better engagement with the specialty. Students have experienced little exposure to vascular surgery. This may affect future recruitment to vascular surgery and overall knowledge of vascular conditions in UK-trained doctors, which may affect long-term patient management.

Are portable ankle brachial pressure index measurement devices suitable for hypertension screening?

In a large-scale population cardiovascular screening programme, peripheral artery disease (PAD) and hypertension would ideally be rapidly assessed using a single device. The ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) is calculated by comparing the ankle and brachial blood pressure (BP). However, it is currently unclear whether brachial BP measurements provided by automated PAD screening systems are sufficiently accurate for simultaneous hypertension screening. Two portable PAD screening devices, the MESI ABPI MD and Huntleigh's Dopplex ABIlity, were evaluated following the European Society of Hypertension International Protocol (ESH-IP) Revision 2010 using a mercury-free sphygmomanometer as a reference device. On average, the MESI slightly underestimated brachial systolic blood pressure (BP) with a bias and standard deviation (SD) of -3.5 (SD: 3.3) mmHg and diastolic BP with a bias of -1.5 (SD: 2.3) mmHg. For systolic BP estimates, the Dopplex was more accurate than the MESI with a lower bias of -0.5 (SD: 4.2) mmHg but less precise. The MESI successfully fulfilled all the requirements of the ESH-IP for hypertension screening. The Dopplex device failed the ESH-IP due to the absence of DBP measurements. The MESI device appears to be suitable for simultaneous PAD and hypertension screening as part of a preventative care programme. Huntleigh's Dopplex ABIlity failed to pass the ESH-IP validation test. Further clinical trials are underway to assess the use of the MESI for simultaneous screening for hypertension and PAD in a population screening setting.

Subclinical lower limb Peripheral Arterial Disease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A cross-sectional study.

Background: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is highly prevalent in patients with diabetes mellitus. The ankle-brachial index (ABI) measurement is used to diagnose peripheral arterial disease, and little is known about its prevalence in asymptomatic type 2 Diabetic patients. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of subclinical peripheral artery disease in patients with type II diabetes mellitus.&#x0D; Methodology: It was a descriptive study conducted at the Peshawar Institute of Medical Sciences, from Feb 2022 to Aug 2022. Two hundred sixty-four patients with type II diabetes (for more than three years) with no clinical features of peripheral arterial disease were assessed by measuring ankle brachial pressure index for subclinical peripheral arterial disease. Reading less than 0.9 was positive for peripheral artery disease in the lower limbs.&#x0D; Results: Peripheral Arterial Disease was present in 115 (43.6%) patients and absent in 149 (56.4%) patients. The peripheral artery disease was significantly more in males, those with age greater than 55 years, smokers, and hypertensive patients (p-value ≤ 0.05) but was not associated with the duration of diabetes or BMI of the patient (p-value &gt; 0.05)&#x0D; Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of asymptomatic peripheral artery disease in Type 2 Diabetic patients using ankle-brachial pressure index measurement. Those with ages greater than 55 years, smokers, hypertensive, and males were particularly at higher risk.

Evaluation of endothelial dysfunction with cardio-ankle vascular index measurements in patients with erectile dysfunction.

It has been reported that there is a relationship between erectile dysfunction and endothelial dysfunction. However, a practical and non-invasive method to clinically evaluate this relationship has not yet been determined. The cardio-ankle vascular index is a marker of arteriosclerosis that develops as a result of endothelial dysfunction. To investigate the correlation between the cardio-ankle vascular index and the presence and severity of erectile dysfunction. This was a case-control study including 74 patients that presented to the urology department of our institution with erectile dysfunction (without cardiovascular risk factors) and 86 healthy individuals of similar age. The patients with erectile dysfunction and the control group were evaluated using the five-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). Cardio-ankle vascular index and ankle-brachial pressure index measurements were performed using the VaSera VS-1000 (Fukuda-Denshi Company, Ltd, Tokyo, Japan) device. The mean age was 59.8± 1.3 years for the erectile dysfunction group and 57.9± 1.1years for the control group. The mean right (R)-cardio-ankle vascular index values of the erectile dysfunction and control groups were 9.20± 2.6 and 8.11± 1.8, respectively (p=0.014), and their mean left (L)-cardio-ankle vascular index values were 9.08± 2.7 and 7.96± 1.2, respectively (p=0.008). The mean International Index of Erectile Function score of the patients with erectile dysfunction was 10.1± 3.6. An inverse correlation was found between the R-cardio-ankle vascular index and L-cardio-ankle vascular index and the International Index of Erectile Function score (r=-0.411, p=0.011, and r=-0.454, p<0.001, respectively). According to our findings, the cardio-ankle vascular index was higher in patients with erectile dysfunction than in healthy individuals.

Generalization of a clinical diagnosis support tool for lumbar spinal stenosis: Can the ankle brachial pressure index be replaced by palpation of the posterior tibial artery in the lumbar spinal stenosis diagnostic support tool? (DISTO project)

BackgroundThe Japanese Society for Spine Surgery and Related Research previously developed a diagnostic support tool for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS-DST). Using the LSS-DST, general physicians can identify potential cases of LSS. However, in the LSS-DST, measurement of the ankle brachial pressure index (ABI) is required to exclude peripheral artery lesions in the lower limbs. We can expect further application of the LSS-DST if we can identify a simpler and easier method than ABI measurement. Therefore, in this large-scale, multicenter, cross-sectional study, we verified whether palpation of the posterior tibial (PT) artery could be used instead of ABI in the LSS-DST. MethodsThis survey was conducted at 2177 hospitals and included 28,883 participants. The sensitivity and specificity of the original LSS-DST method using the ABI and that of the LSS-DST ver2.0 with PT artery palpation were assessed to screen their ability for diagnosing LSS, using the physicians' final diagnosis based on the patients’ history, physical examination and radiographic findings as the gold standard. ResultsThe sensitivity and specificity [95%CI] of the LSS-DST were 88.2% [87.5, 88.8] and 83.9% [83.4, 84.5], respectively, whereas the sensitivity and specificity of the LSS-DST ver2.0 were 87.7% [87.0, 88.3] and 78.3% [77.7, 78.9], respectively, indicating that LSS-DST ver2.0 is a useful screening tool for LSS with good sensitivity. ConclusionWhen the item of ABI in the LSS-DST is replaced by palpation of the PT artery (LSS-DST ver2.0), its sensitivity is maintained as a screening tool for LSS. Level of evidenceLevel 3.

Assessment of the diagnostic accuracy of automated ankle brachial pressure index devices in patients with diagnosed or suspected peripheral arterial disease: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: The ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI) is a common diagnostic tool used in the assessment of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The Doppler ultrasound technique is regarded as the gold-standard method for ABPI measurement; however, time constraints and operator experience limit widespread application in clinical practice, particularly in a primary care setting. Automated ABPI devices are not currently widely used due to a lack of evidence regarding their diagnostic accuracy. The aim of this proposed systematic review and meta-analysis is to explore the current evidence for the accuracy of automated ABPI devices in people with known or suspected PAD. Methods: Systematic searches of electronic databases and grey literature will be performed. We plan to include studies of adult patients with diagnosed or suspected PAD that have compared automated ABPI device readings with manual Doppler ABPI measurements or confirmed the diagnosis of PAD using vascular imaging. Two independent reviewers will screen identified literature for inclusion and perform data extraction. Extracted data will include study and participant characteristics, a description of the index and reference tests, outcome measures and main findings. The methodological quality of selected studies will be assessed using QUADAS-2 and QUADAS-C. Meta-analysis will be performed for studies with paired designs using a bivariate random-effect model to provide pooled estimates of summary accuracy statistics. We intend to conduct subgroup analyses and meta-regression for suspected sources of heterogeneity. Discussion: This review aims to assess the diagnostic accuracy of automated ABPI devices for detecting PAD in patients with known or suspected PAD compared with manual Doppler ABPI measurements or vascular imaging. These results will be used to inform clinical practice and guide future trials.

Clinical Profile of Long-Term Survivors and Nonsurvivors with Type 1 Diabetes in India.

Objective: To compare the clinical profile of long-term survivors and nonsurvivors with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in India. Research Design and Methods: This is a retrospective study of 76 individuals with T1D who had survived for at least 40 years ("survivors") and 51 individuals with T1D who had died with shorter duration of diabetes ("non-survivors"), from diabetes clinics in different cities of India. Prevalence of complications in both groups and causes of death of the nonsurvivors were analyzed. Retinopathy was diagnosed by retinal photography; chronic kidney disease (CKD) by urinary albumin excretion (micro-or macroalbuminuria) and estimated glomerular filtration rate; peripheral vascular disease (PVD) by doppler measurement of ankle-brachial pressure index; coronary artery disease (CAD) based on history of myocardial infarction or coronary revascularization, and neuropathy by biothesiometry. Results: Mean glycated hemoglobin (8.4% ± 1.5% vs. 10.7% ± 2.2%, P < 0.001), serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (91 ± 29 mg/dL vs. 107 ± 22 mg/dL, P = 0.004), and systolic blood pressure (135 ± 16 mmHg vs. 153 ± 37 mmHg, P = 0.003) were lower, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (51 ± 11 mg/dL vs. 43 ± 15 mg/dL, P = 0.002) higher, among survivors compared to nonsurvivors. Diabetic retinopathy, CKD, neuropathy, PVD, and CAD were more frequent among nonsurvivors. CAD [25.5%] and renal failure [23.5%] were the most frequent causes of death. Conclusions: In this first report of long-term survivors with T1D from India, we report that survivors had better glycemic and blood pressure control, more favorable lipid profiles and lower prevalence of complications compared to nonsurvivors. However, there could be other protective factors as well, which merit further studies.

Inadequacies of Physical Examination in Patients with Acute Lower Limb Ischemia Are Associated with Dreadful Consequences

Acute lower limb ischemia (ALI) is limb and life-threatening. The aim of this study was to explore the association between adherence to guidelines on clinical diagnosis of ALI and outcome at 1 year. The hypothesis was that that better examination was associated with favorable outcome in ALI patients. Retrospective cohort study between 2015 and 2018. In-hospital, operation, radiological and autopsy registries captured 161 citizens of Malmö with ALI. The initial bedside evaluation was performed by an emergency physician. Scoring was based on evaluation of the 6 "Ps" and 1 point was given for pain, pallor, pulselessness, perishing cold, paresthesia, paralysis or ankle-brachial pressure index (ABI). The performance was scored (range 0-7), and a score ≥5 was defined as a satisfactory vascular leg status. A multivariate logistic regression was performed to adjust for confounders and expressed in Odds Ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). A satisfactory first clinical examination was performed in 55.3% of the patients. Measurement of ABI (OR 0.25, 95% CI 0.11-0.55), performing complete pulse status (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.20-0.85), evaluating paralysis (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.20-0.89), and a bedside score ≥5 points (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.23-0.97) were independently associated with reduced risk of major amputation/mortality at 1-year follow up. Quality of initial bedside evaluation in patients with ALI was unsatisfactory to a large extent and better clinical examinations were associated with favorable outcome at 1 year. Skills in clinical diagnostics in ALI needs to be much improved.

Wound healing: what is the NICE guidance from the UK?

Alteration of wound healing increases the risk of a patient's morbidity and mortality. This can lead to scarring, infection, malignant transformation and a reduction in quality of life. Management of wounds costs the UK an estimated £5.3 billion annually which is paid for by the state, with further financial burden due to health related productivity loss. Wound care is managed by a broad spectrum of different health professionals leading to different standards of care. For example, only 16% of lower leg wounds have either an ankle-brachial pressure index measurement or Doppler scan. Due to this variation in wound care, we have summarised all available NICE guidelines and guidance up to February 2021 on the topic of wound healing listed in the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) archives. The goal is to provide an easy to access summary of wound care interventions. Our search provided us with 18 technology appraisals related to wound healing which have been summarised.

Is Toe Brachial Index a Better Tool than Ankle Brachial Index for Predicting Outcomes in Diabetic Foot Patients?

Introduction: Diabetes accounts for more than 50% of lower extremity amputation, of which 85% of lower limb amputation in diabetic patients are preceded by foot ulcers. The increasing prevalence of ischaemic ulcers has made ischaemia probably the most important cause of Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFUs) today. Modalities for assessment of vasculopathy include clinical examination of pulses, Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABI), Toe Brachial Pressure Index (TBI), Transcutaneous partial pressure of Oxygen (TCpO2), Duplex imaging, Magnetic Resonance (MR) and Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA). Aim: This study was aimed at evaluation of ABI and TBI in assessment of vasculopathy in DFUs and their association with the various surgical outcomes. Materials and Methods: This study was done as a cross-sectional study on 100 patients with diabetic foot, from December 2016 to April 2018, with prospective follow-up till the outcome of “ulcer healed”, “minor/major amputation” with healing of the amputation stump, was achieved. The multimodality approach for treatment of DFU was taken. Variables like age, gender, duration of present ulcer, previous history of ulcers and interventions, comorbidities, history of smoking and duration of diabetes were recorded and assessed. The examination included examination of peripheral pulses, presence of neuropathy, measurement of ABI and TBI. Investigations included HbA1c levels, swab or pus cultures from the ulcers, objective evaluation of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) by Duplex Ultrasonography and CT Angiography where an intervention was contemplated. The data was entered in MS Excel spreadsheet and analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. Results: The mean age was 62.55±9.21 years, with maximum patients belonging to the age group 61-70 years (38%) followed by 51-60 years age group (33%). Smoking as a risk factor was present in 59% of all the patients. A total of 53 patients underwent amputation among which 28 were smokers (52.8%). Neuropathy was present in 47.22% (n=51), with 60.87% of all patients with neuropathy undergoing amputation which was significant (p-value=0.005). When defined by ABI alone (ABI &lt;0.9), 46.3% patients had PAD, however, using TBI &lt;0.7 for defining PAD, incidence of PAD increased to 68.31% patients. Thus identifying 21 more patients with PAD as compared to ABI. Poor glycaemic control was significantly associated with poor outcome in the form of amputation (p&lt;0.001). Patients who underwent major amputation had a mean ABI of 0.54±0.22, for minor amputation the mean ABI was 0.85±0.19 and for those who had healed ulcers, had a mean ABI of 0.61±0.27. The cut-off value for ABI to predict amputation was &gt;0.51 with a sensitivity of 77.14 and a specificity of 56.1, which was not found to be significant (p-value=0.0796). The mean TBI for the diabetic feet was 0.25±0.12 for major amputation, 0.42±0.26 for minor amputation and 0.61±0.19 for ulcer healed. With a cut-off value of ≤0.3, the sensitivity and specificity for predicting amputation were 68.75 and 88.68 respectively which was found to be significant (p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: The ABI has been found to under-report ischemia as compared to TBI in diabetic patients. TBI also correlates better with the outcome of a DFU. Thus, making TBI a part of assessment of vasculopathy in DFU patients who have not undergone toe amputations, would help in correctly identifying ischemia and early institution of possible intervention in such patients.

Comparison of Color Doppler Ultrasound and Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index Measurement in Peripheral Vascular Diseases

Peripheral vascular diseases (PVD) are a group of common degenerative (organic) and vasospastic (functional) disease processes that result in significant morbidity and are strong predictors of subsequent mortality. It is diagnosed by definitive history of intermittent claudication or if one or more of peripheral pulses are absent in one or both lower limbs. A variety of non-invasive techniques, viz., ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) test and color Doppler imaging, are available to diagnose the presence of PVD as well as to localize areas of stenosis, assess severity of disease, and follow patients for disease progression or response to therapy. Therefore, the focus of this study is to compare color Doppler ultrasound and ABPI individually and in combination in diagnosing cases of peripheral vascular diseases, considering CT angiography the gold standard investigation. Patients were assessed on the basis of history; clinical examination and relevant investigations done were noted in the data sheet according to the proforma including the Edinburgh Claudication Questionnaire. Comparison of color Doppler ultrasound and ankle-brachial pressure index measurement in peripheral vascular diseases was determined using relevant statistical tests. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated for comparison of ABPI and color Doppler imaging with CT angiography. Color Doppler ultrasound proved to be a better modality as compared to the ankle-brachial pressure index for diagnosis of peripheral vascular disease, considering CT angiography the gold standard investigation.

Ankle Brachial Pressure Index: An update for the vascular specialist and general practitioner.

Objectives Ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI) is an invaluable tool for assessing the severity of peripheral arterial disease. In addition, it can be used as an independent marker of cardiovascular risk, with a predictive ability similar to the Framingham criteria. Identification of an abnormal ABPI should therefore trigger aggressive cardiac risk factor modulation for a patient. Unfortunately, the significance of abnormal ABPIs is poorly understood within the general medical community. This is compounded by the influence of various comorbidities on accurate measurement of ABPI, potentially leading to a wide variability in readings that need to be considered before interpretation in these patient populations. We aim to address these issues by revealing several common misunderstandings and pitfalls in ABPI measurement, describing accurate methodology, and highlighting patient cohorts in whom additional or alternative approaches may be required. Methods We present a narrative review of the role of ABPI in both the community and hospital setting. We have performed a literature review, exploring the validity and reproducibility of methodology for obtaining ABPI, alongside the utility of ABPI in different clinical scenarios. Results The measurement of ABPI is often performed incorrectly. Common pitfalls include inadequate patient preparation, failure to obtain the blood pressure from the correct lower limb artery in patients with tibial disease, failure to account for differences in brachial blood pressure between the arms, inappropriately chosen equipment and patient factors such as highly calcified arteries. Standardisation of methodology greatly improves reliability of the test. Exercise ABPI can identify significant peripheral arterial disease in patients with normal resting ABPI. In addition to its role in peripheral arterial disease, ABPI measurement has a role in assessing venous ulcers, entrapment syndromes and injured extremities; conversely, it has a more limited utility in the diabetic population. Conclusions A thorough understanding of the correct technique and associated limitations of ABPI measurement is essential in accurately generating and interpreting the data it provides. With this knowledge, the ABPI is an invaluable tool to help manage patients with peripheral arterial disease. Perhaps more importantly, ABPI can be used to identify and risk stratify patients with asymptomatic peripheral arterial disease, itself a major indicator of significant underlying cardiovascular disease. With the emergence of best medical therapy, targeted pharmacotherapy and lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in high-risk patients by approximately 30%, particularly in diabetic patients. Therefore, the utility of ABPI transgresses vascular surgery, with an essential role in general practice and public health.

Utility of ankle–brachial pressure index/carotid intima-media thickness ratio in predicting presence and severity of coronary artery disease: A study from major center in Northeastern India

Background: Studies have shown that carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and ankle–brachial pressure index (ABI) can be used as surrogate markers of coronary artery disease (CAD). However, whether studying the ratio of ABI and CIMT has any added value in predicting CAD when compared to either of them alone, has not been studied. Aims: The aim of the study is to compare CIMT and ABI as surrogate markers for the presence and extent of CAD and to investigate whether studying the ratio of ABI and CIMT has any incremental value in predicting CAD than either of them. Methods: We prospectively enrolled 235 stable, non-ACS patients who underwent CIMT and ABI measurements followed by diagnostic coronary angiography. Results: The mean age of the study population was 56.32 ± 10.14 years. CIMT was significantly higher in the CAD group compared to non-CAD group (0.91 ± 0.22 vs. 0.66 ± 0.15, P ≤ 0.0001). ABI was significantly lower in the CAD group compared to non-CAD group (1.07 ± 0.19 vs. 1.18 ± 0.14, P ≤ 0.0001). At an optimal cutoff value of ≥0.75 mm, CIMT showed better predictive values (sensitivity and specificity –72.3% and 79%, respectively) compared to ABI ≤0.9 (sensitivity and specificity – 21.53% and 96.19%, respectively). CIMT was the strongest independent predictor of CAD (P

Assessment of ankle–brachial pressure index in elderly patients as screening for lower extremity ischemia in the context of medical test method used

ABSTRAKTWstęp: Wskaźnik kostka–ramię (ABI) wyraża stosunek ciśnienia skurczowego w tętnicach zlokalizowanych na podudziach, tj. tętnicy piszczelowej tylnej bądź tętnicy grzbietowej stopy, do ciśnienia panującego w tętnicy ramiennej.Celem niniejszej pracy było porównanie wartości ABI mierzonego za pomocą detektora dopplerowskiego fali ciągłej (DDFC) oraz urządzenia BOSO ABI-SYSTEM 100 (ABIs) u seniorów, a także próba określenia czynników determinujących wyniki badań w porównaniu z pacjentami młodszymi.Materiały i metody: Przedmiotem przeprowadzonego badania był pomiar ABI przy użyciu DDFC oraz urządzenia ABIs wśród pacjentów z przewlekłą niewydolnością żylną, niedokrwieniem kończyn dolnych oraz cukrzycą. Badania przeprowadzono po uzyskaniu zgody Komisji Bioetycznej nr KB 523/2016 z dnia 28.06.2017 r. przy Uniwersytecie Mikołaja Kopernika w Toruniu, Collegium Medicum w Bydgoszczy w okresie 28.06.2016–6.04.2017 r. Miejscem realizacji badań była Poradnia Leczenia Ran Przewlekłych w Szpitalu Uniwersyteckim nr 1 im. Ludwika Rydygiera w Bydgoszczy.Wyniki: Średnia wartość ABI wśród wszystkich badanych wyniosła w kończynach: prawej – 0,999 (DDFC), 0,954 (ABIs), lewej – 0,980 (DDFC) i 0,945 (ABIs); z odchyleniem standardowym 32,9% (DDFC), 30,1% (ABIs) dla kończyny prawej i 34,2% (DDFC), 32,1% (ABIs) dla kończyny lewej wartości średniej, co świadczy o dużym zróżnicowaniu wyników. Średnio najwyższy wskaźnik uzyskali pacjenci z cukrzycą (1,163 DDFC – dla kończyny prawej, 1,196 DDFC – dla kończyny lewej), a najniższy – badani z miażdżycą (0,750 – kończyna prawa, 0,684 – kończyna lewa DDFC).Wnioski: Wyniki pomiaru ABI za pomocą DDFC oraz ABIs nie wykazują istotnych statystycznie różnic mogących wpływać na postawienie diagnozy. Płeć, wiek, wykształcenie i analiza kliniczna pacjentów częściowo określiły wyniki testu ABI. Pacjenci w wieku 61–70 lat i najstarsi mieli najniższe wartości ABI.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and its association with cardiovascular disease

IntroductionNon-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) encompasses a wide spectrum of liver disease that ranges from hepatic steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Obesity and diabetes mellitus are the prime risk factors for NAFLD. The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence of NAFLD among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and to detect the association of NAFLD with cardiovascular disease in them. Study designProspective observational study. Material and methodsThe study was conducted on 300 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending the outpatient department of a tertiary care teaching hospital. All patients underwent hepatic ultrasonography to look for hepatic steatosis. Among the 300 patients, 124 were divided into NAFLD and non-NAFLD groups based on the ultrasound findings. These patients were subjected to electrocardiogram, 2D echocardiogram, carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) measurement and ankle brachial pressure index measurement along with measurement of markers of oxidative stress. ResultsHepatic steatosis was present in 61% of diabetic patients in this study. Cardiovascular disease was not found to be significantly associated in diabetic patients with NAFLD. However, cardiovascular risk factors like CIMT, high sensitivity c-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were elevated in these patients. hs-CRP and MDA levels were found to be significantly associated with the severity of NAFLD. ConclusionThere is a high prevalence of NAFLD in type 2 diabetic patients. No correlation was detected between the presence of NAFLD and cardiovascular disease in them; although there was an association between cardiovascular risk factors and NAFLD.

Abstract P514: Age-related Differences in the Annual Changes of the Ankle-brachial Pressure Index: Underlying Mechanisms

Objectives: The present prospective observational study was conducted to examine the age-related annual changes of the ankle-brachial pressure index (ABI) and their association with the longitudinal changes of the brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), a marker of arterial stiffness, and the radial augmentation index (rAI), a marker of the pressure wave reflection in middle-aged Japanese men. Methods and Results: In 4264 men (42 ± 9 years old) of a Japanese construction company, the ABI, baPWV and rAI were measured annually over a 9-year observation period. During the study period, ABI (from 1.10 ± 0.07 to 1.13 ± 0.07), baPWV (from 1295 ± 194 to 1344 ± 217 cm/sec) and rAI (from 69 ± 13 to 72 ± 13 %) were increased significantly (p&lt;0.01). Mixed model linear regression analysis of the repeated-measures data revealed that the annual increase of the ABI was lower in men aged over 50 years of age (n = 1237: 0.28 ± 0.06) than in those aged under 50 years of age (n = 3027: 0.50 ± 0.04) (p &lt; 0.01). Furthermore, while increased baPWV (estimate = 0.017, p &lt; 0.05) and increased rAI (estimate 0.254, p &lt; 0.05) were significantly related to the annual increase of the ABI in men aged &lt;50 years (p &lt; 0.01), no such association was observed in men aged &gt; 50 years. Conclusion: In middle-aged Japanese men, the ABI increases with age until the age of 50 years, and increased arterial stiffness and increased pressure wave reflection may contribute to this annual increase. In men aged &gt; 50 years, the annual increase of the ABI was attenuated, which could be related, at least in part, to the attenuation of the increase of the pressure wave reflection and also attenuation of the effect of increased arterial stiffness on the hydrostatic pressure in the arteries with age. These findings may suggest the usefulness of ABI measurement as a screening tool for peripheral arterial disease in men over 50 years old.

Peripheral artery disease issues in diabetes patient in family medicine practice

The peripheral arterial disease of the legs is the consequence of atherosclerosis located under the bifurcation of abdominal aorta. In early stages (without symptoms), the prevalence of disease can only be estimated. The diabetic patient is more exposed to the risk; insensate feet due to diabetic peripheral neuropathy may delay the time of diagnosis and significantly increases the risk of ulcers and amputation. In the presence of risk factors, clinical data and ankle brachial pressure index can confirm diagnosis in early stages. Ankle brachial pressure index measurement and calculation can be performed in family medicine practice in 15 minutes; the technique is simple and the equipment affordable. Early diagnosis allows a conservative treatment, with long-term good results and a significantly reduction of amputations. Quality of life of diabetic patients depends on the precocity of diagnosis.

Prognostic significance of ankle brachial pressure index: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Purpose To synthesize and quantify the excess risk of morbidity and mortality in individuals with low ankle-brachial pressure index. Methods Electronic databases were searched to identify studies investigating morbidity and mortality outcomes in individuals undergoing ankle-brachial pressure index measurement. Meta-analysis of the outcomes was performed using fixed- or random-effects models. Uncertainties related to varying follow-up periods among the studies were resolved by meta-analysis of time-to-event outcomes. Results Forty-three observational cohort studies, enrolling 94,254 participants, were selected. A low ankle-brachial pressure index (<0.9) was associated with a significant risk of all-cause mortality (risk ratio: 2.52, 95% CI 2.26-2.82, P < 0.00001); cardiovascular mortality (risk ratio: 2.94, 95% CI 2.72-3.18, P < 0.00001); cerebrovascular event (risk ratio: 2.17, 95% CI 1.90-2.47, P < 0.00001); myocardial infarction (risk ratio: 2.28, 95% CI 2.07-2.51, P < 0.00001); fatal myocardial infarction (risk ratio: 2.81, 95% CI 2.33-3.40, P < 0.00001); fatal stroke (risk ratio: 2.28, 95% CI 1.80-2.89, P < 0.00001); and the composite of myocardial infarction, stroke, and death (risk ratio: 2.29, 95% CI 1.87-2.81, P < 0.00001). Similar findings resulted from analyses of individuals with asymptomatic PAD, individuals with cardiovascular or cerebrovascular co-morbidity, and patients with diabetes. Conclusions A low ankle-brachial pressure index is associated with an increased risk of subsequent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality. Randomised controlled trials are required to investigate the effectiveness of screening for PAD in asymptomatic and undiagnosed individuals and to evaluate benefits of early treatment of screen-detected PAD.