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Cardiology / Cardiovascular

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) - Claudication

ICD-10 Code
I73.9_4

Clinical Criteria for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) - Claudication.

Clinical Presentation & Protocol

Patient Usually Complains Of

Patient presents with reproducible exertional lower extremity pain, cramping, or fatigue (claudication) relieved by rest. Symptoms localized to [calf/thigh/buttock]. Onset: [duration]. Progression: [stable/worsening]. Associated symptoms: [rest pain/nocturnal pain/non-healing ulcers/paresthesia]. Risk factors: [smoking history/HTN/DM/dyslipidemia/family history].

Clinical Examination Findings

Vascular exam: Peripheral pulses [0-2+] in [femoral/popliteal/dorsalis pedis/posterior tibial] arteries. Capillary refill time: [seconds]. Skin: [atrophic changes/hair loss/shiny skin/dependent rubor/pallor on elevation]. Temperature: [cool/warm]. Ulceration: [presence/absence, location, depth, base characteristics]. Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI): [value].

Treatment Protocol

1. Lifestyle: Smoking cessation, structured walking program (30-45 mins, 3x/week). 2. Pharmacotherapy: Antiplatelet therapy ([Aspirin/Clopidogrel]), Statin therapy ([High-intensity]), Cilostazol [dosage] for claudication symptoms. 3. Risk factor optimization: BP control (<130/80), HbA1c management. 4. Referral: Vascular surgery consultation for consideration of revascularization if symptoms are refractory.

Detailed clinical guide coming soon.