Maximal systolic acceleration in peripheral arterial disease

Abstract

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), one of the major conditions within the spectrum of cardiovascular diseases, is an increasing threat for public health worldwide. Since

(generalized) atherosclerosis forms the basis of PAD, all of these patients are at high risk of major adverse cardiovascular events. Availability of prompt diagnostic evaluation to successfully manage patients with suspected PAD is therefore of great importance. Bedside tests remain the mainstay of currently used diagnostic work-ups, as they carry no risks and have a low financial burden on the healthcare system. Although multiple bedside tests are

routinely used in clinical practice with reasonable diagnostic performances for the general population, medial arterial calcification (MAC) presents a significant challenge, resulting in reduced accuracy. Because improvements within the field are needed to improve clinical care, this thesis describes the potential role of the maximal systolic acceleration (ACCmax) in diagnostic and prognostic strategies for patients with suspected PAD, in particular if MAC is present.