ABPI – Ankle Brachial Pressure Index Measurement for the Early Detection of PAD

Cardiovascular diseases make up 35% of deaths all over the world. Unfortunately, despite greater awareness about these diseases, many remain unable to recognise if they have one or not. Often, it is not only that they can’t recognise it — they choose to ignore the signals their body sends, believing that without a real medical diagnosis, those signals mean nothing.

This is why cardiology associations around the world strongly advocate screening for cardiovascular diseases; in particular, they recommend the ABPI – Ankle Brachial Pressure Index measurement which can detect Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), the most common form of Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) that affects 15% to 20% of people over age 65. PAD is a circulatory problem; occlusions in the arteries narrow the path where blood must flow, limiting the delivery of essential oxygen and nutrients to the limbs.

Why is ABPI measurement important?

Aside from the prevalence of PAD, it is alarming how 70% of patients with the disease do not get diagnosed because they experience no symptoms at all. This means that PAD can develop more seriously without a person even knowing that he has it and urgently needs treatment.

PAD increases risks for heart attacks or stroke. Likewise, if not treated immediately, it can lead to gangrene and amputation. The risks that can be avoided by early detection through ABPI measurement or screening are serious; these can mean a significant reduction of life quality and even death.

What device is used for ABPI measurement?

For this simple, non-invasive and pain-free solution, the most reliable device used is the Automated Ankle-Brachial Index Measuring Device. It is able to make a reliable comparison of blood pressures in arms and legs, and can predict occlusion of lower extremity arteries.

One such example is the MESI MD APBI. It is considered the fastest ABI measurement product in the world. With this automatic device, taking measurements takes no more than a minute. It is also worth noting that it is very easy to use, as the machine does both the blood pressure measurement and calculation of the pressure index.

The features/functionalities of this device include:

• Advanced error detection system – The smart software prevents false results in the case of ischemia (inadequate blood supply a part of the body), or medial calcinosis (a form of vessel hardening).

• Cuff-based technology – This ensures ease of use, yet it is powerful enough to detect the slightest changes in volume.

• Unique algorithm for ankle blood pressure calculation – This was developed with the human ankle anatomy in mind since it is not possible to measure blood pressure in the ankles just using a brachial blood pressure device.

• Simultaneous measurement – This eliminates blood pressure drift error, and saves time.

Cardiovascular diseases like PAD can be managed effectively; through accurate ABPI measurement using the MESI APBI MD, 200 million people with PAD can receive timely treatment and become more proactive in preserving their well-being.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is ABPI measurement and why is it important?

ABPI (Ankle Brachial Pressure Index) measurement is a simple, non-invasive, and pain-free screening test that detects Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) by comparing blood pressures in the arms and legs. It's important because PAD affects 15-20% of people over age 65, and 70% of patients with PAD experience no symptoms, meaning the disease can develop seriously without diagnosis and urgent treatment.

2. What is Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)?

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is the most common form of Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) and is a circulatory problem where occlusions in the arteries narrow the path where blood must flow, limiting the delivery of essential oxygen and nutrients to the limbs. PAD increases risks for heart attacks, stroke, and if left untreated, can lead to gangrene and amputation.

3. How common are cardiovascular diseases globally?

Cardiovascular diseases make up 35% of deaths worldwide. Despite greater awareness about these diseases, many people remain unable to recognise if they have one or choose to ignore the signals their body sends. This is why cardiology associations strongly advocate for screening, particularly ABPI measurement for early detection of PAD.

4. What percentage of PAD patients go undiagnosed?

Alarmingly, 70% of patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease do not get diagnosed because they experience no symptoms at all. This means PAD can develop into a serious condition without a person knowing they have it and urgently need treatment, highlighting the critical importance of routine ABPI screening.

5. What device is used for accurate ABPI measurement?

The most reliable device for ABPI measurement is an Automated Ankle-Brachial Index Measuring Device, such as the MESI MD ABPI. This device makes a reliable comparison of blood pressures in arms and legs and can predict occlusion of lower extremity arteries. The MESI MD ABPI is considered the fastest ABI measurement product in the world, taking measurements in no more than a minute.

6. How does the MESI MD ABPI prevent false results?

The MESI MD ABPI features an advanced error detection system with smart software that prevents false results in cases of ischaemia (inadequate blood supply to part of the body) or medial calcinosis (a form of vessel hardening). This ensures accurate readings even in complex clinical situations where other devices might produce unreliable results.

7. What are the serious risks of untreated Peripheral Arterial Disease?

Untreated PAD significantly increases risks for heart attacks and stroke. If not treated immediately, it can lead to gangrene and amputation, resulting in significant reduction of life quality and even death. Early detection through ABPI measurement screening can help avoid these serious risks and enable timely treatment.

8. What makes the MESI MD ABPI faster than traditional ABPI measurement methods?

The MESI MD ABPI uses simultaneous measurement technology, which eliminates blood pressure drift error and saves time. Taking measurements requires no more than a minute, making it the fastest ABI measurement product in the world. The device is also very easy to use, as the machine performs both the blood pressure measurement and calculation of the pressure index automatically.

9. What is the most common medical equipment for a new practice? 

Starting a new medical practice requires the right equipment and furniture to ensure smooth operations and patient care. Below are some of the essential medical items typically required:

Medical Equipment:

• Stethoscopes: Used for listening to heartbeats, lung sounds, and other bodily functions.

• Ophthalmoscopes: Essential for examining the eyes and diagnosing conditions like cataracts or glaucoma.

• Otoscopes: Used to look inside the ear and diagnose conditions such as infections or earwax buildup.

• Diagnostic Sets: Includes tools for examining eyes, ears, throat, and other areas of the body.

• Defibrillators: Life-saving devices used to restore a normal heart rhythm during emergencies.

• Thermometers: Vital for measuring patient body temperature to check for fever or other health concerns.

• Automatic Blood Pressure Monitors: Provides quick and accurate blood pressure readings without the need for manual cuff inflation.

• Pulse Oximeters: Measures oxygen saturation levels in the blood, an important tool for respiratory health.

• Scales: For accurately weighing patients as part of routine check-ups.

• Sphygmomanometers: Used for manual blood pressure measurement.

• Spirometers: Essential for assessing lung function, particularly in patients with asthma or other respiratory conditions.

Medical Furniture:

• Couches, Beds, and Tables: Comfortable and functional furniture for patient examination and treatment.

• Lighting: Proper lighting is essential for accurate diagnoses and a comfortable environment for patients.

• Trolleys and Carts: For storing and transporting medical supplies, medications, and equipment efficiently.

• Vaccine Fridges: Designed to store vaccines at the appropriate temperatures to maintain their effectiveness.

Having the right mix of medical equipment and furniture ensures a safe, efficient, and professional environment for your new practice.

 

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