Ultrasound Method Promises Early Diagnosis for Peripheral Artery Disease

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Surrey has unveiled a promising alternative diagnostic method for peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition that affects approximately 25% of adults and can lead to severe complications such as pain, ulcers, and even amputations. The findings, published in the *European Heart Journal—Imaging Methods and Practice* on July 10, 2025, suggest that this new approach could significantly enhance early detection and management of PAD, particularly among high-risk populations, including diabetics.

Peripheral artery disease is characterized by poor blood circulation, primarily to the legs and feet, which is often diagnosed too late. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as the toe-brachial index (TBI), have limitations, particularly in patients with diabetes, where the reliability of the test can be compromised. The TBI test measures blood pressure in the arms and compares it to that in the toes, but its effectiveness varies among different patient demographics.

The University of Surrey study, led by Professor Christian Heiss, investigated a novel method using a Doppler ultrasound technique to estimate the toe-brachial index (eTBI). This method was applied to 155 limbs from patients undergoing treatment for PAD. The results indicated that eTBI not only provided a more accurate assessment but also was faster, reproducible, and accessible compared to the standard TBI test.

"This research could lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective management of PAD, especially for people with diabetes and those at higher risk of heart diseases, which could result in preventing serious complications like foot ulcers and amputations," stated Professor Heiss. The study found that eTBI yielded consistent results, with different healthcare professionals achieving similar outcomes, regardless of the ultrasound machines used.

The significance of this advancement cannot be overstated. According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death globally, and timely diagnosis is critical for effective intervention. The introduction of eTBI could reshape the diagnostic landscape for PAD, particularly in regions with high diabetes prevalence, where early intervention is crucial.

Critics of traditional PAD diagnostics have long highlighted the need for improved methods that can deliver timely results. Dr. Emma Carter, a cardiology expert from the Mayo Clinic, emphasized that "the eTBI method addresses many of the shortcomings associated with the traditional TBI test, particularly in diabetic patients who are often at a higher risk for PAD. This could ultimately lead to better patient outcomes."

This development also aligns with broader healthcare goals to enhance diagnostic accuracy and accessibility. According to a report by the National Institute of Health (NIH), early and accurate diagnosis of PAD is essential for reducing healthcare costs associated with late-stage complications, which can include surgeries and extended hospital stays.

The eTBI method represents an important step forward in cardiovascular diagnostics. As healthcare providers increasingly adopt this technique, it is expected to improve patient management strategies and reduce the burden associated with untreated PAD. Future research will likely focus on the integration of eTBI into clinical practice and its potential impact on patient outcomes across diverse populations.

In conclusion, the advent of the eTBI method signifies a transformative approach in the diagnosis of peripheral artery disease. By enhancing early detection capabilities, it paves the way for improved patient care and outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations such as those with diabetes. As the medical community continues to embrace innovative diagnostic tools, the hope is to significantly mitigate the long-term effects of PAD and enhance overall cardiovascular health.