What it is
This is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a narrowing or blockage of the arteries, most often in the legs, caused by plaque buildup. Reduced blood flow can cause leg pain when walking, slow-healing wounds and other problems. Treatments open the artery to restore blood flow:
Who may be a candidate
This procedure may help:
- People with leg pain, cramping or fatigue when walking that eases with rest
- People with leg or foot wounds that are slow to heal
- People whose symptoms have not improved enough with exercise and medicine
Whether it fits you is decided after a review of your history, exam and imaging.
How it works
You receive local anesthesia with mild sedation. A thin catheter is placed in an artery, usually at the groin, and guided with X-ray imaging to the narrowed area. Depending on the blockage, Dr. Gibbens may use angioplasty (a small balloon that is inflated to widen the artery), a stent (a small mesh tube left in place to keep the artery open) or atherectomy (a catheter device that removes plaque). These may be combined.
Why choose this option
- Done through a thin catheter, with no large incision
- Guided by live X-ray imaging
- Outpatient care, and most people go home the same day
- Performed by Dr. Gibbens, board certified in Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine
Recovery
You lie flat and are monitored for a few hours, then most people go home the same day. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for a few days. You may be prescribed medicine to help keep the artery open, and walking programs are often part of follow-up care.
Who performs the procedure
Interventional radiologist, board certified in Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine. Dr. Gibbens performs the embolization and other interventional radiology procedures listed on this site, at Bey Lea ASC (54 Bey Lea Road, Building 2, Toms River). Your evaluation and follow-up take place at any of our 7 GSMC offices.
Patient handout
Frequently asked questions
Is this procedure surgery?
No. It is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure done through a thin tube (catheter) placed in a blood vessel at the wrist or groin. There is no large incision.
Who performs it?
Douglas Gibbens, MD, an interventional radiologist board certified in Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, performs this procedure at Bey Lea ASC in Toms River.
Will I go home the same day?
Most people go home the same day after a period of rest and monitoring. Plan to have an adult drive you home.
Does PAD treatment replace walking and medicine?
No. Walking programs, quitting smoking and medicines remain part of PAD care. Opening an artery is added when symptoms or wounds need it.
What about my medicines?
Our team reviews your medicines before the procedure. Do not stop a blood thinner unless the doctor who prescribes it approves.
Does insurance cover it?
Coverage varies by plan and diagnosis. Our team will check your plan and talk with you about costs before anything is scheduled.
How do I find out if I am a candidate?
Request a consultation or call 732-202-3000. Your evaluation includes a review of your history and imaging, and a talk about all of your options.
More interventional radiology procedures
Request a consultation
Talk with our team about whether peripheral artery disease may fit your goals. This page is general education and is not medical advice.