[Management of peripheral arterial disease. Summary of the new European guidelines].

Abstract

New European guidelines for the management of peripheral arterial disease emphasize a comprehensive approach focusing on prevention, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Cardiovascular risk factors, such as smoking, high cholesterol, hypertension and diabetes, must be managed by lifestyle changes and medications such as statins, antiplatelet agents and, in some cases, anticoagulants. Diagnosis is based on the ankle-arm pressure index, with ultrasound as the first imaging modality. For intermittent claudication, supervised exercise is recommended. Revascularization is considered if symptoms persist after optimal treatment.