Obliteration Index: a simple non-invasive tool for the assessment of peripheral vascular disease in chronic kidney disease

Abstract

Based on complex examination of Doppler signals recorded at 4 main arteries of both lower extremities and their semiquantitative assessment, we introduced the Obliteration Index (OI) as a novel and simple tool allowing semiquantitative assessment of peripheral artery disease in CKD patients. Very good correspondence was found between the OI and angiography.

Based on over 1,500 OI evaluations performed so far, OI can be recommended as a simple, noninvasive, bedside tool for diagnosis of early as well as advanced peripheral artery disease.