Peripheral Arterial and Venous Disease Flashcards
What are varicose veins?
Tortuous, twisted or lengthened veins
What is the pathophysiology of varicose veins?
Weak vein wall
Dilatation + seperation of valve cusps
Valves become incompetent
What are the symptoms of varicose veins?
Veins feel
- heaviness
- tension
- aching
- itching
What are complications of varicose veins?
Haemorrhage Thrombophlebitis Oedema Skin pigmentation Varicose eczema Lipodermatosclerosis Venous ulceration
What is thrombophlebitis?
Venous thrombosis that produces an inflammatory response
What is the common colour of skin in venous deficiency?
Dark stain
Why does skin have a dark stain in venous insufficiency?
Haemosiderin staining
- stasis causes oxidation of iron in RBCs
What causes venous hypertension?
Calf muscle pump failure
What causes calf muscle pump failure?
Immobility
Obesity
Deep vein competence
Volume overload - superficial vein incompetence
What are symptoms of DVT?
Calf pain Swelling Calf tenderness Skin warmth Discolouration
What is acute limb ischaemia?
Sudden reduction in blood supply
What can cause acute limb ischaemia?
Embolism
Trauma
What is the time period for recovery before amputation?
6 hours
What can happen if limb not amputated?
Death
- hyperkalaemia due to dead tissue releasing intracellular potassium
What are the symptoms of acute limb ischamia?
Pain Paralysis Paraesthesia Pallor Perishingly cold Pulseless
