Pedal Acceleration Time: A Functional Indicator of Success in Revascularisation.

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Non-invasive assessment of foot perfusion is crucial for managing peripheral artery disease.
• Pedal acceleration time (PAT) offers a rapid and effective method for evaluating lower limb arterial insufficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate PAT as a functional measure of foot perfusion before and after revascularisation.
• To compare PAT changes post-revascularisation between diabetic and non-diabetic patients.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, observational study adhering to STROBE guidelines was conducted from 2020-2022.
• PAT was measured on pedal arteries, with best and worst values recorded for analysis.
• 142 patients undergoing revascularisation were included, with pre- and post-intervention PAT measurements.

Main Results:

• Mean PAT improved significantly post-revascularisation (Class 4 to Class 2; 245.2 ms to 125.1 ms).
• Diabetic patients exhibited a smaller PAT improvement compared to non-diabetic patients (p < .001).
• Open revascularisation resulted in greater PAT improvement than endovascular treatment.

Conclusions:

• PAT is a dependable tool for assessing foot perfusion and quantifying improvements after revascularisation.
• The study confirms reduced PAT improvement in diabetic patients, underscoring PAT's utility in arterial insufficiency management.