CLINICORADIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF PERIPHERAL ARTERIOPATHY IN DIABETICS

Background :The steady rise in prevalence of Diabetes mellitus has resulted in increase in the complications related to diabetes. Peripheral arterial disease in diabetes is an independent risk factor for subsequent ulceration and limb loss in diabetics. It is therefore essential that peripheral arterial disease is identified in all patients with diabetics. Methods : The present prospective observational study conducted at a tertiary centre in central India was aimed at clinico-radiological assessment of lower limb vessels in patients with diabetes. 184 patients with diabetes were assessed clinically and with doppler ultrasound. Results :Peripheral vascular disease was more common among patients with type II diabetes. Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) of < 0.8 was common among patients with longer duration (> 10 years), Doppler ultra sound of lower limbs revealed significant changes bilaterally with type II diabetes and increased duration of diabetes. Conclusion : Peripheral arteriopathy is an important risk factor for diabetic foot especially with longer duration of type II diabetes.