Limb Preservation Program

Critical ischemic limb disease occurs when an artery in the legs is partially or completely blocked by atherosclerotic plaque, limiting blood flow and reducing the amount of oxygen supplied to the extremities. This is the most severe form of peripheral arterial disease and patients with critical limb ischemia are at risk for tissue necrosis and limb loss. Patients with advanced leg ischemia often suffer from pain in their feet and toes, even while at rest, and may suffer from non-healing wounds, skin ulcers, and poor foot/ankle surgical wound healing. Active patients may also suffer pain during exercise.

When patients enter the Limb Preservation Program, they receive priority access to multi-specialty care in one convenient location. Patients can undergo immediate non-invasive testing such as ankle-brachial index and lower extremity ultrasound studies at the time of their visit.

All patients are evaluated by a vascular provider, as well as a podiatrist, during the same initial visit. From cases affecting only one limb, to more complex situations involving patients with heart disease or stroke, our experts consider “the whole patient” as a coordinated team.

Interventions for lower extremity peripheral arterial disease include complex endovascular procedures (angioplasty, stenting, atherectomy) and bypass surgery. The multidisciplinary nature of the program allows the adequate selection of procedures for our patients.

The Yale University Vascular Medicine Outcomes (VAMOS) program partners with patients who have peripheral artery disease (PAD) to help manage their vascular health. This includes tracking patients’ quality of life outcomes and working with patients to design innovative treatments to address issues like stress and depression. The VAMOS program incorporates several resources toward managing patient care, including participation in clinical trials, and leading national and international vascular outcomes studies.