Arterial occlusion

Arterial occlusion refers to the blockage of an artery, which can significantly impede blood flow to various parts of the body. This condition can lead to serious health complications, including tissue damage and organ failure, depending on the location and severity of the blockage. Arterial occlusions are primarily caused by atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque within the artery walls, but can also result from other conditions such as embolism, thrombosis, and external compression.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The primary cause of arterial occlusion is atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the accumulation of fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances on the artery walls. These deposits, known as plaque, can narrow and stiffen the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow. Other causes include:

Embolism - where a blood clot, air bubble, or other substance travels through the bloodstream and lodges in an artery, blocking blood flow.
Thrombosis - the formation of a blood clot within an artery, which can occur in situ due to various factors including high cholesterol, hypertension, and smoking.
External compression - where an external force or structure compresses the artery, restricting blood flow.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of arterial occlusion vary depending on the affected artery but may include:

Pain in the affected area
Coldness or numbness in the extremities
Muscle weakness or paralysis
Skin color changes (pallor or blueness)
Decreased pulse or absence of pulse below the blockage

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of arterial occlusion involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, including:

Doppler ultrasound - to assess blood flow and identify blockages in the arteries.
Angiography - an imaging test that uses a contrast dye and X-rays to view blood flow through the arteries.
Computed tomography (CT) scan and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - to provide detailed images of the arteries and surrounding tissues.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for arterial occlusion focuses on restoring blood flow to the affected area and may include:

Medications such as antiplatelet agents, anticoagulants, and thrombolytics to prevent clot formation and dissolve existing clots.
Angioplasty - a procedure to open narrowed or blocked arteries using a balloon catheter.
Stent placement - to keep the artery open after angioplasty.
Arterial bypass surgery - creating a detour around the blocked artery using a vessel from another part of the body or a synthetic tube.