Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)

Peripheral vascular disease can be a serious and debilitating condition. Using the latest technology and evidence-based treatments, Dr Vivienne Moult is highly skilled and able to manage your condition holistically with both medical and surgical solutions. 

Claudication?

Claudication is the term for exercise-induced cramping of leg muscles as a result of narrowing or blockage of the arteries. The cramping can affect buttock/ thighs or the calves, depending on the location of the arterial problem. 

Management is always tailored to the individual, taking into account the specifics of your particular situation. Dr Vivienne Moult believes strongly in the latest evidence-based medicine and treating all patient’s holistically. That is why most patient’s with claudication are initially managed conservatively. This includes intensive risk factor modification and an structured exercise and walking program. Many patient’s are obtaining excellent results with conservative management alone and are being able to increase their walking distance till it is no longer lifestyle limiting, and being able to avoid surgery. For patient’s who fail conservative management, Dr Vivienne Moult provides a full range of endovascular (keyhole) treatment options and open bypass surgery. If intervention is required Dr Vivienne Moult will discuss your options with you and work together to find the best solution. 

Critical Limb Ischaemia?

Critical limb ischaemia is when arterial narrowing’s or blockages are so severe that it results in tissue loss (gangrene or non-healing ulcers) or rest pain (pain that remains even when you are not walking). Critical limb ischaemia is a serious condition and has a significant risk of limb loss. Procedures or surgery are usually required. Dr Vivienne Moult will assess provide a full assessment of your condition and discuss with you regarding the possible options. Dr Vivienne Moult will be with you every step of the way to help save your limb. 

Other peripheral Vascular conditions 

Dr Vivienne Moult is also experienced in treating other conditions affecting the arteries of the limbs such as: 

Popliteal aneurysms

Popliteal aneurysms are when the popliteal artery behind the knee expands and becomes larger than normal. This is a serious concern as it can lead to rupture of the artery (bleeding) or more commonly occlusion of the artery. Occlusion of a popliteal aneurysm is a vascular emergency requiring immediate vascular review and surgery, and it is associated with a very high rate of limb loss. If you are found to have a popliteal aneurysm, Dr Vivienne Moult will advise you or the risks and develop a treatment plan, which often involves surgery to bypass the affected artery. Sometimes if your aneurysm is very small, Dr Vivienne Moult will advise a surveillance plan in which regular ultrasound surveillance is undertaken, as the risk of complications is very low. If the aneurysm increases in size or has other concerning features then Dr Vivienne Moult will discuss with treatment options with you - to prevent the aneurysm from occluding and causing acute limb ischaemia. 

Popliteal Cystic Adventitial Disease 

Popliteal cystic adventitial disease is a very rare disease in which the popliteal artery is compressed by a cystic fluid which accumulates in the wall of the artery. Over time this can lead to narrowing or occlusion of the artery. If you are found to be suffering from cystic adventitial disease, Dr Vivienne Moult will discuss with you regarding your individual situation and recommend an individual treatment plan. This often involves surgery and excision of the affected artery and replacement with a bypass. Depending on your individual circumstances other treatments are available and may be recommended.