25 - Acute Limb Ischaemia

Question 1

6 Ps of acute limb ischaemia?

Answer 1

Pain 
Pulseless (ankle pulses are always absent)
Pallor 
Paralysis/power loss
Paraesthesia/reduced sensation
Perishingly cold

Question 2

Classical clinical picture (presentation + Hx) for acute limb ischaemia?

Answer 2

Hx - claudication and risk factors for peripheral arterial disease (e.g. A fib + smoking Hx)

Presentation - acute onset pale, cool limb likely due to embolus

Question 3

Character of pain in acute limb ischaemia?

Answer 3

Constantly present and persistent

Question 4

What skin changes, other than pallor, can be seen in an ischaemic limb?

Answer 4

Mottling

Cyanosis