How to Perform an Ankle Brachial Index Study (ABI)
The Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) exam is the most simple and common test currently used to diagnose Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). An Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) uses an ultrasound Doppler to assess the ratio of the highest systolic pressure at the arm to the systolic pressure at the ankle. Koven Technology non-invasive Dopplers can be used to perform an Ankle Brachial Index study.
Take a blood pressure reading at the arm
Place a blood pressure cuff around the patient's arm. Place ultrasound gel on the tip of the probe and apply the probe at a 45 to 60 degree angle over the brachial or radial artery.
Wait for Doppler sounds to become stable. If your Doppler has an LCD display, watch the waveform on the display until it becomes rhythmic and stable.
Inflate the cuff to 20 mmHg over pressure cessation. Then, slowly deflate the cuff until the first Doppler sound is heard.
Record the systolic pressure when the first sound is heard and repeat the test on the other arm. Use the highest arm pressure to calculate the ABI to rule out subclavean steal syndrome.
Take a systolic pressure at the ankle
Place a blood pressure cuff snugly above the patient's ankle. Place ultrasound gel on the probe tip and apply the probe at a 45 to 60 degree angle over the posterior tibial or dorsalis pedis artery.
Wait for Doppler sounds to become stable. If your Doppler has an LCD display, watch the waveform on the display until it becomes rhythmic and stable.
Inflate the cuff to 20 mmHg over pressure cessation. Then, slowly deflate the cuff until the first Doppler sound is heard.
Record the systolic pressure when the first sound is heard and repeat the test on the other leg.
Interpreting the Results
Waveform Examples
To calculate the ABI, divide the ankle pressure by the highest arm pressure
The instructions provided above are intended as general guidelines. For specific instructions on performing an Ankle Brachial Index study using your Doppler, please refer to the operation manual and/or inservice video provided.
For additional information please e-mail Koven Technology Canada at info@koven.com
