July 9, 2008 - Summit Doppler Systems this week introduced a significant upgrade to the Vista AVS, a full-featured arterial physiologic exam system, which allows clinicians to perform the ankle brachial index (ABI) exam for the diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in the seated position.
The ABI exam, which compares systolic blood pressures obtained at the ankles and arms, was traditionally performed with the patient in the supine position to prevent error from hydrostatic pressure. This position requirement made the exam difficult for patients with disabilities or mobility impairments. Recent studies have shown these patients have reduced access to many diagnostic exams. The new Vista AVS reportedly calculates ABI values for seated patients by compensating for the effects of gravity on the lower extremity pressures.
Along with the ability to perform the seated ABI using hydrostatic pressure correction, the company said its new Vista AVS allows clinicians to customize segmental studies by selecting the number and location of arterial sites. While the ABI exam is performed as the initial test to diagnose PAD, segmental studies are performed on patients with PAD to localize the occlusion in the lower limbs.
PAD affects 8 to 12 million people in the U.S. every year. It is characterized by the narrowing of the arteries in the legs caused by plaque build-up, also known as atherosclerosis. Early detection can prevent further cardiovascular events, such as heart attack, stroke and death. Awareness of PAD and its diagnosis and treatment are rapidly increasing. Better equipment and reimbursement for the diagnosis is making the exam cost effective for office-based medical practices.
The Vista AVS, first released in 2007, was designed by Summit Doppler to make the ABI and other arterial exams faster, easier, and more affordable.
For more information: www.summitdoppler.com
August 27, 2024 
