Adam Rafi, MD, board-certified interventional cardiologist at Quincy Medical Group (QMG), recently performed the first peripheral artery stenting procedure at the QMG surgery center.
Peripheral artery stenting is a treatment option for peripheral arterial disease (PAD). According to Dr. Rafi, PAD is an under-diagnosed condition that affects more than eight million people over the age of 40 in the United States alone.
“PAD is the build-up of plaque caused by a process called ‘atherosclerosis’ that causes narrowing of the arteries, including those in the lower extremities,” Dr. Rafi explained.
Common treatment of PAD includes conservative therapy like a healthy diet, smoking cessation, aggressive diabetic management, and exercise. However, other treatment options might be necessary, including peripheral artery stenting.
“Other treatments for PAD include certain procedures to restore blood flow, such as minimally invasive procedures, for example, stents to open the arteries and improve blood flow, or in some cases, peripheral artery bypass grafting may be needed.”
Timely treatment of PAD is critical. If left untreated, Dr. Rafi said people with PAD can develop serious health conditions.
“When plaque ruptures it forms a blood clot that can lead to a complete blockage that may lead to amputation if left untreated,” Dr. Rafi explained. “Symptoms can include cramping, weakness, or tingling in the legs. Early detection is vitally important. Risk factors include age, hypertension (HTN), high cholesterol, Diabetes Mellitus (DM), and smoking.”
Dr. Rafi is part of the QMG Cardiology team, which also includes Wissam Derian, MD, a board-certified cardiologist, and Hope Owens, certified nurse practitioner. To learn more about the QMG Cardiology team and services, click here.