Leading the Way in PAD Awareness and Care: CIS is Named PAD Vascular Team of the Year

HOUMA, LA – September is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Awareness Month, bringing awareness to a vascular leg condition that affects more than 20 million Americans. Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) has been named the PAD Vascular Team of the Year by the Global PAD Association for its impact on limb salvage and the diagnosis, treatment and education of PAD.*

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition in which peripheral arteries, most commonly those in the lower legs, become narrowed and restrict blood flow. Those with PAD have an increased risk of stroke and heart attack. Over time, PAD can lead to a more severe condition called critical or chronic limb ischemia (CLI), resulting in painful ulcers and gangrene, and ultimately leading to amputation if left untreated.

“Sick legs are almost never attached to healthy people,” explained Dr. Craig Walker, interventional cardiologist and founder of CIS. “There is an epidemic of PAD, and the overwhelming majority of patients with PAD remain undiagnosed. This is why early detection is crucial.”

Advancing care for peripheral artery disease and limb salvage has always been a part of Dr. Walker’s mission when he founded CIS in 1983 to provide the highest quality cardiovascular care available. He continually strives to improve care in our communities through education—to advance the skill of interventionists and medical professionals treating PAD, and to create public awareness for diagnosis and treatment options. CIS has always been at the forefront of advancing care for PAD, and conferences such as New Cardiovascular Horizons, also founded by Dr. Walker, aim to further this mission of education as well.

Amputations are prevalent in patients with severe PAD or CLI, but Dr. Walker teaches that minimally-invasive techniques and procedures can improve outcomes and ultimately save limbs and lives. “Amputees experience high rates of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality,” he advised. “But there are many interventional techniques that allow us to open vessels when surgery is not an option. I know we can do better.”

The majority of patients with PAD are unaware of the condition and that it can be treated. About half experience no symptoms or attribute their symptoms to causes other than PAD. Those experiencing symptoms may notice the following: pain or cramping after activity, numbness, coldness, sores or ulcers that won’t heal, discoloration, hair loss, shiny skin or a weak pulse. The risk for developing PAD increases with age and is highest for those over 50 years old. Smoking increases the chance of developing PAD three to five times. Other common risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and a family history of vascular disease, heart attack or stroke.

Watch the exclusive interview with Dr. Craig Walker:

To learn more or to schedule an appointment to be evaluated for PAD, click below.

*The Global PAD IMPACT Awards honor individuals and organizations across the globe who have made exceptional contributions to the field of PAD through research, innovation, patient education, advocacy, and/or professional leadership. Awardees are recognized for their selfless dedication to life and limb-saving care, advancing the field, and significantly improving the quality of life for PAD patients across the globe.