FootProblem

Non-Healing Wounds: A Sign of Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a condition that develops within the arteries. When PAD is present, plaque buildup in the arteries reduces blood flow and oxygen delivery to the legs and may cause a wide range of symptoms. This plaque buildup occurs as a result of atherosclerosis, or “hardening of the arteries,”, and when left untreated, can cause severe symptoms including pain, non-healing wounds, and the possible need for amputation of a limb. Although many people with PAD do not experience any symptoms, it is important to be aware of these potentially dangerous signs and symptoms so you can seek proper vascular care.

Chronic, non-healing wounds are a symptom of PAD. These wounds often occur on the toes, feet, or legs, where blood flow is reduced due to blocked arteries. Those who experience wounds that do not show healing within 1 to 2 weeks may have advanced PAD, and they are encouraged to see their doctor immediately or schedule a consultation at American Endovascular to determine if they need treatment or are at risk of serious complications.

Symptoms of Non-Healing Wounds

Wound healing is something most people do not think twice about. Normally, the body is able to do its job to close up wounds after an injury, but for those with certain medical conditions, it can be more difficult, or even impossible, for wounds to heal on their own. A wound that has not healed after just a few weeks is considered a non-healing wound. Symptoms of non-healing wounds include:

  • Wounds that do not show signs of healing (scab formation, getting smaller) over 1 to 2 weeks
  • Wounds associated with leg numbness, worsening pain, a history of pain when walking or leg elevation, or weakness and loss of muscle size in the affected leg
  • Redness or swelling that extends beyond the wound, particularly with drainage or a bad smell that may indicate a dangerous wound infection
  • Wounds that are getting progressively larger or when underlying tissues such as tendon or bone is exposed

Causes of Non-Healing Wounds

A variety of medical conditions and factors can cause delayed wound healing. It is important to determine the cause of this symptom so that the right treatment steps can be taken. Non-healing wounds can present a danger to those affected, as the wound can continue to worsen and cause long-term health problems. Some causes of chronic wounds include:

  • Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
  • Infection
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Repeated trauma
  • Skin conditions
  • Autoimmune diseases
  • Certain medications

How Does Peripheral Artery Disease Cause Non-Healing Wounds?

When the body is generally healthy, the regular healing process for a wound kicks in automatically. Healing involves teamwork from various parts of the body, including the blood vessels, immune system, and skin tissue. Strong blood flow to and from a wound site is crucial for the healing process. 

However, peripheral artery disease delays wound healing. It inhibits blood flow to the lower extremities and takes away a wound’s access to the resources it needs to heal. Patients with PAD may have non-healing wounds on the leg, feet, and ankles. These wounds can lead to painful sores and other issues, including infection or more severe complications.

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Treatment for Non-Healing Wounds Associated with PAD

Treatment of non-healing wounds involves treating the wound itself and its underlying cause. If you are diagnosed with PAD, your physician will guide you on proper wound care techniques to avoid further complications down the road. At American Endovascular, we provide several innovative treatment options for peripheral artery disease to help each patient get on track to healthier living.

Amputation Prevention

Severe PAD brings a greater risk of potential limb loss, especially when non-healing wounds are present. At American Endovascular, we are experts in limb salvage and preservation so that patients can avoid amputation whenever possible, using innovative techniques and technologies such as pedal loop intervention.

Angioplasty

During angioplasty, a low-profile catheter with an inflatable balloon attached is used to stretch open the affected artery and restore blood flow to the rest of the body. This process can also be used to address artery-blocking clots, as medicine can be administered through the catheter if needed.

Atherectomy

Atherectomy is a minimally-invasive procedure that has evolved with cutting-edge advances including orbital, rotational, and diamond-coated surfaces technology. During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into the artery via a minimally-invasive incision. This process is often utilized to treat arteries or blood vessels that are not easily treated with stents.

Stent Placement

A stent is a metallic-based implantable device that is inserted into an artery to address conditions like PAD. This process provides the artery with a new skeletal framework, strengthens its walls, and allows it to remain open. This supports blood flow to other parts of the body, including the lower extremities.

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What to Expect from Your PAD Treatment

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Less invasive than surgery
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Same-day procedure
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No hospital stay
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Shorter recovery time than major surgery
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Compassionate outpatient care
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Our Vascular Specialists

Our affiliated endovascular specialists at American Endovascular proudly work with patients of all ages to address endovascular conditions and issues, including PAD. The members of our team are recognized as innovators and leaders in vascular and interventional radiology. We will ensure that all of your questions and concerns are addressed every step of the way.

Our Vascular Centers in NY & NJ

At our vascular centers in New York and New Jersey, we work with patients to address endovascular conditions and concerns and provide innovative treatment options. We provide our care in a warm, comforting environment, with procedures performed in a convenient outpatient setting. We are proud to utilize the latest minimally-invasive techniques and technologies to address conditions like PAD.

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71, Carroll Street, New York, 11231
347-479-1110
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718-395-6247
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60, Merritt Boulevard, Fishkill, New York, 12524
845-896-1900
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505, East 116th Street, New York, New York, 10029
646-362-3178
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West Orange, NJ
347, Mount Pleasant Avenue, West Orange, New Jersey, 07052
973-947-6586
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Dr. Shams office is amazing. Whitney and Angela were AMAZING. Great sense of humor. Staff is WONDERFUL.
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I had a good experience with my procedure and Dr. Mobley’s follow-up calls are great. I’ve never had a doctor who has been so concerned about following up after a procedure to see how I’m doing and if there are any post-procedure problems I may have experienced (which there aren’t). I’d highly recommend Dr. Mobley.
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Dr Mobley was so helpful, informative and made me feel secure in making my future medical plan. Supportive and kind. Highly recommended.
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Doctor was very thorough. Explaining what the procedure is all about. Tell me what I could realistically expect. Couldn’t have asked for a better consultation. Highly recommended if you have a prostate issue
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Love this Dr and staff. They are all kind courteous and professional with excellent medical care. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need.
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I was very pleased and satisfied on how Dr. David Mobley examined me and explained everything on what I need to know regarding my condition. He’s very professional and knowledgeable in all aspects of his profession. I would highly recommend him to my other friends!
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23:16 07 Jun 23
Dr Shams was very attentive and explained everything in detail. The staff was very nice, the staff/nurse were all so very helpful, It was a Monday morning and I didn’t expect such happy staff.
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21:22 06 Jun 23
He puts his patients before himself, returning calls and e-mails quickly. Not only is he kind and considerate, he is an excellent physician. I had to have a procedure that requires me to be awake, and he talked me through it and kept me at ease. If I could give him more stars, I would.
Super friendly, tentative, once in the procedure rm the sx staff made you feel comfortable, easy,+ answered all questions. David mobley, MD answered all my questions, very informative, caring. I felt confident in his care
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Margo A Williams
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19:19 29 Mar 23
This has been the best medical experience I’ve had in over thirty years. I was nervous to have a procedure after only knowing about my condition a year ago. They made this process so easy for me that I’m in shock that I had no pain, no discomfort thanks to an excellent doctor and professional staff! Thank you all and best of luck to your practice.
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14:16 29 Mar 23
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22:12 27 Mar 23
This was the best experience I have had in such a long time and I have had quite a few procedures in the past both in patient and out including the procedure I was currently present for. No other surgeon has been so kind, transparent, and gentle. Not only did he personally come out beforehand to provide me with education on my procedure, but he talked me through every step of the way and made me feel so comfortable and relaxed. Not to mention his amazing staff! Despite being extremely nervous they kept me smiling and laughing throughout the whole process. 10/10 would recommend. Thank you so much guys!!
Riah L.
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00:16 01 Mar 23
I went with my mom who just had a hip surgery. The whole team was very caring, nice and very professional. I did appreciate that the surgeon took the time to explain to me what was wrong with my mom’s arm and what he did to fix it.
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13:25 13 Feb 23
Every thing and the process are being done properly ..Terissa you are very Carey ..thank you so much every body are very polite and very professional.. Thank you so much to Dr.Mobley..God blessed you all .🙏🙏🙏👍
Remigio Ruda
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03:28 31 Jan 23
Very knowledgeable, personable and professional. I came to Dr. Mobley to correct another surgeons work and I was pleased with the outcome. There is a Hispanic woman that runs things in the O.R.She is great! The whole staff is wonderful and caring.Highly recommend
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I had a wonderful PA take care of me, & the nurses were very sweet. I was happy with my visit
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Excellent Doctor he explains the procedure process so that it is understandable and comfortable for the patient!
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