Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
ankle-brachial index
A diagnostic test comparing blood pressure in the ankle to blood pressure in the arm to assess peripheral circulation.
Full Definition
The ankle-brachial index (ABI) is a non-invasive diagnostic tool used to evaluate peripheral arterial disease by measuring the ratio of systolic blood pressure at the ankle to systolic blood pressure in the arm. Values below 0.9 suggest arterial disease, while values above 1.3 may indicate vessel calcification. This test is fundamental in vascular medicine for screening, diagnosis, and monitoring treatment response in patients with suspected peripheral arterial disease.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as ABI in clinical documentation; ensure consistency within documents.
In Context
- "The ankle-brachial index was 0.65, confirming moderate peripheral arterial disease." — Diagnostic report
- "Post-intervention ankle-brachial index improved to 0.95." — Follow-up note
Also known as
ABI
Don't confuse with
arm-brachial index