Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease

What is Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease?

Aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD) is a condition of narrowing and blockage of the major blood vessels in the abdomen, called the aorta and iliac arteries. This narrowing is caused by fatty deposits called plaque that form and harden on the walls of the arteries. This results in the narrowing of the lumen of the artery, restricting the supply of oxygen-rich blood to organs and muscles. AIOD is a serious condition that can lead to life-threatening outcomes if not treated promptly.

Symptoms and Signs of Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease

The most common symptom of AIOD is a pain known as claudication. This is a type of pain that occurs in the legs and buttocks while walking, but it can also affect the arms, abdomen, and back. This pain is usually already present when the patient first seeks medical help. Other associated symptoms and signs can include:

• Weakness in the legs
• Numbness in the feet or toes
• Muscle cramps in the legs while walking
• Tiredness in the legs that worsens with activity
• Coldness in the legs and feet
• Impotence in men

Causes of Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease

Aortoiliac occlusive disease is caused by a buildup of plaque on the inside wall of the aorta and iliac arteries. The causes of this buildup are:

• Smoking
• High cholesterol levels
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Atherosclerosis
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Obesity

Diagnosis of Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease

The diagnosis of AIOD is made by a combination of clinical symptoms, physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies. The imaging studies include:

• Angiography: This is the gold standard of AIOD diagnosis. The procedure involves the injection of dye into the arteries to highlight any narrowing or blockages on an X-ray.
• Ultrasound: This procedure uses sound waves to provide an image of the affected arteries.
• CT scan: This procedure uses X-rays and a computer to create an image of the affected arteries.

Treatment of Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease

The risk factors associated with AIOD can all be treated and/or managed to reduce the progression of the disease. These include lifestyle changes such as: quitting smoking, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and controlling your blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Medications, such as statins and blood pressure medications, can also be used to reduce the risk of narrowing and blockage of the affected arteries. Additionally, depending on the severity of the condition, surgical treatments such as angioplasty or bypass surgery may also be necessary to restore adequate blood flow to the limbs.