Limb Plethysmography
Limb plethysmography
A test called limb plethysmography compares the blood pressure in the arms and legs.
How the Test is Performed
This examination can be conducted in a hospital or in the practitioner’s office. It will be required of you to lie with your upper body slightly elevated.
Your arm and leg are securely cuffed with three or four blood pressure monitors. The cuffs are inflated by the provider, and each cuff’s pulse is measured by a device known as a plethysmograph. Systolic blood pressure, the highest pressure generated after a heartbeat, is measured during the test.
Variations among the pulses are seen. A blockage could be indicated by a reduction in pulse between the arm and leg.
The blood pressure cuffs are taken off after the test is over.
How to Prepare for the Test
Before the exam, refrain from smoking for at least thirty minutes. All clothing must be removed from the arm and leg that are being evaluated.
How the Test will Feel
This test shouldn’t cause you any significant discomfort. Only the blood pressure cuff’s pressure should be felt by you. It usually takes less than 20 to 30 minutes to complete the test.
Why the Test is Performed
The most common purpose of this test is to look for blockages or narrowing of the arteries that provide blood to the arms and legs.
Normal Results
The difference between the leg’s and arm’s systolic blood pressure should be less than 20 to 30 mm Hg.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Unusual outcomes could result from:
- Occlusive arterial disease
- Clots of blood
- Diabetes-related alterations to blood vessels
- An artery’s injury
- Additional vascular diseases that affect blood vessels
Other circumstances that allow the test to be carried out include:
- DVT
- You might require more testing to pinpoint the precise location of the constriction if your result is atypical.
Risks
Nothing is at danger.
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Considerations
An arteriography is more accurate than this test. For severely sick patients who are unable to go to the arteriography lab, plethysmography may be performed. This examination can be performed as a follow-up to previous abnormal tests or as a screening for vascular disease.
There is no need for dye injections or x-rays during this noninvasive procedure. Plus, the cost is lower than that of an angiography.
