Peripheral Vascular Flashcards
Why feel for radial radial delay ?
Suggests coarctation of the aorta
Why measure BP in both arms in an upper peripheral vascular exam ?
A significant difference may indicate aortic aneurysm
What examination should be done of the abdomen in a peripheral vascular exam ?
- inspection for visible pulsations
- palpate for abdominal aorta - AAA?
- auscultation for aortic Bruits
What should you Inspect for on the lower limbs in a lower peripheral vascular exam ?
- scars e.g. From vein harvesting
- hair loss
- discolouration
- pallor
- missing limbs/toes
- ulcers
- muscle wasting
- ask patient to wiggle toes (gross motor assessment)
Where is the femoral pulse best palpated ?
Mid inguinal point (halfway between ASISand pubic symphysis)
What is buerger’s test ?
Demonstrates poor lower limb perfusion
- raise feet to 45 degrees for 2/3 mins: observe for pallor (note at what angle this appears), angle of less than 20 indicates severe limb Ischaemia, then place patients legs over end of bed - observe for reactive hyperaemia (white - pink - red)
End pieces for peripheral vascular exam
- full cardiovascular exam
- ABPI
- lower limb neuro exam
In a peripheral vascular examination what should you inspect for in the upper limb ?
- colour
- tar staining
- tendon xanthoma
- gangrene
