Pulse Arrival Time as an Alternative Biomarker to Detect Lower-Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating segmental pulse arrival time (PAT) as a possible new biomarker to detect lower-extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) and to study how local skin heating, foot elevation, and age affect PAT. The study includes adults aged 19 or older, with or without PAD. It aims to determine if PAT can predict PAD compared to the standard ankle-brachial index (ABI) and how these factors influence the measurements. Participants will attend a single laboratory visit where descriptive measurements like height, weight, body fat, age, and sex are recorded. They will rest lying down for 20 minutes before having either ABI or PAT measured first, then the other test after 10 minutes of rest. PAT is measured using a special device with sensors on the fingers and toes that monitor heart and blood flow signals while the skin temperature is adjusted and the feet are elevated. ABI uses blood pressure cuffs and Doppler ultrasound to measure blood pressure in the arms and legs. After these tests, participants complete a 6-minute walking test to assess exercise capacity. During the visit, blood pressure is taken at various stages, and thermal images of the fingers and toes are captured to record skin temperature changes. The study lasts about 2.5 hours with no follow-up visits. Researchers compare PAT results with ABI and walking test outcomes to evaluate PAT's accuracy in detecting PAD and related walking difficulties. Safety is monitored throughout the visit, and participants' usual care continues unaffected.

Detecting Peripheral Artery Disease With the Pulse