PAD Technology in Clinics

Tools

By Madelyn Jarrett

Story Published: Feb 24, 2009 at 10:25 PM MDT

Story Updated: Feb 25, 2009 at 8:04 AM MDT

BILLINGS - Saint Vincent Healthcare is installing new technology in an effort to save patients some miles on the road.

They've installed PADnet screening devices in clinics across eastern Montana and northern Wyoming. The technology allows a doctor to diagnose peripheral arterial disease in the hometown clinic instead of sending them to a specialist at a vascular lab.

PADnet screening is also non-invasive and takes only about 20 minutes. The old way of diagnosing PAD involved a CT scan or angiogram which can be invasive and are much more expensive.

"Especially in towns outside of billings where we have a vascular surgeon, if you're out there and wondering, what do I do with this patient. Sometimes you send a patient thinking they have something they don't. This machine gives the ability to decide whether or not there's actually something to send them for," says Joan Thullbery, the director of the St. Vincent Healthcare Vascular Center.

PAD is the build up of cholesterol and plaque in the arteries of the lower extremities. It causes decreased blood flow to legs and feet, sores that won't heal and pain in the feet and toes, among other symptoms.

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