ankle-brachial index
A non-invasive test comparing blood pressure in the ankle to the arm to detect peripheral artery disease.
Full Definition
The ankle-brachial index (ABI) is a simple, non-invasive diagnostic test that compares systolic blood pressure measurements at the ankle to those at the brachial artery to assess for peripheral artery disease (PAD). The test is performed using a handheld Doppler device and blood pressure cuffs, calculating the ratio of ankle to brachial systolic pressures. Normal ABI values range from 1.00 to 1.40, with values 0.91-0.99 considered borderline, 0.41-0.90 indicating mild to moderate PAD, and ≤0.40 suggesting severe PAD. ABI testing is particularly important in diabetic patients who have increased PAD risk, and abnormal results warrant further vascular evaluation and aggressive cardiovascular risk factor modification.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate the full term; ABI is standard abbreviation.
In Context
- "The ankle-brachial index of 0.85 suggested moderate peripheral artery disease requiring vascular surgery consultation." — Vascular medicine assessment
- "Annual ABI testing is recommended for all diabetic patients over 50 to screen for PAD." — Diabetes care guidelines