An ankle to brachial index or “ABI” is a test that measures the blood pressure in the arms and ankles. The blood pressure in the ankles is compared to the blood pressure in the arms to screen for peripheral artery disease (blockages or narrowing of the arteries supplying the legs.
Why you are having this procedure (symptoms/indications):
Your doctor may have ordered an ankle to brachial index to evaluate your leg pain or you may have known or suspected peripheral artery disease.
Prep for the procedure:
There is no preparation for the test.
What to expect:
You will have to remove your socks and shoes. You will be asked to lie on your back during the test. Blood pressure cuffs will be placed around your arms and ankles. The cuffs will be inflated and a probe (Doppler transducer) will be used to record the blood pressure of both arms and both ankles. The test will take about 30 minutes to complete.
Risks:
There are no known risks associated with this test.
Post procedure instructions/limitations:
You may resume your normal activities immediately following the test.
