critical limb ischemia

Full Definition

The most severe manifestation of peripheral arterial disease, characterized by chronic ischemic rest pain, non-healing wounds, or gangrene due to severely compromised arterial perfusion. Critical limb ischemia represents limb-threatening pathology requiring urgent revascularization or amputation consideration. Documentation must include wound characteristics, pain patterns, ankle pressures, and toe pressures when available for proper staging and treatment planning.

Usage

Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as CLI in medical documentation.

In Context

• "The patient presents with critical limb ischemia manifesting as rest pain and non-healing ulceration." — Clinical presentation
• "Critical limb ischemia requires expedited revascularization to prevent amputation." — Treatment planning