Critical Limb Ischemia

Left untreated, PAD can lead to amputation

Have you heard of CLI?

We understand that as you learn more about peripheral artery diseasePeripheral artery disease (PAD) is a disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to your head, organs, and limbs. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, fibrous tissue, and other substances in the blood. (PADPeripheral Artery Disease, a potentially life threatening disease where plaque, like calcium, builds up along blood vessel walls, narrowing the arteries and reducing blood flow to the legs and feet.), you may discover stages of the disease you’re unfamiliar with, such as critical limb ischemiaAlso potentially known as CLI, the most severe and deadly form of peripheral artery disease., or CLI. This is the worst form of PAD. Doctors may also refer to this condition as chronic limb threatening ischemiaAlso referred to as critical limb ischemia (CLI), the most severe and deadly form of peripheral artery disease., or CLTI. Ask a doctor if you have an advanced stage of PAD, or use our Find a Doctor tool to locate a PAD specialist.

When you have PAD, your arteriesArteries are blood vessels that carry blood to your heart and other parts of your body. are narrowed, restricting the blood flow to your legs, feet and/or toes. If a diagnosis has shown your PAD has advanced to CLI, the restricted blood flow could be so considerable and widespread that you may be at significant risk for amputationTo surgically remove all or part of a limb (leg, foot or toe).

Without treatment to help restore circulation you may need an amputation and your life could be at risk.⁴

What are the symptoms?

The presence of an ulcerUlcers (or wounds) can occur when there is poor blood flow in your legs or feet. Poor blood flow causes cells to die and damages tissue, often on the feet and legs. These types of wounds can be slow-healing. or gangreneGangrene is dead tissue, caused by poor blood flow to part of your body. Gangrene can occur on the skin or in muscles or organs. Peripheral artery disease is a known cause of gangrene. is often a sign of CLI. Leg pain while walking and leg pain that is frequently intolerable also can be common with CLI. Intense discomfort from CLI can last from minutes to hours, and often happens at night.

The leg pain from CLI can interrupt your sleep, and you might hang your foot off the edge of the bed in an attempt to get relief. Or you might only be able to get rest when you sleep upright in a chair.²⁰

Make an Appointment

CLI can impact your health, and only a health care professional can diagnose you. Don’t put it off. Talk with your doctor now, or use our Find a Doctor tool to locate a PAD specialist near you.