|
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
What is on the horizon?
Investigators are currently researching the potential advantages to cell and gene therapies in patients with PAD. These new therapies could improve blood flow in the legs and may even promote the growth of new blood vessels. However, cell and gene therapies would only treat the symptoms of PAD, such as intermittent claudication, and would not stop the progression of PAD.
In addition to gene therapies, researchers are also investigating genetic factors that may be responsible for the development of atherosclerosis, as well as genetic factors that increase or decrease the likelihood of developing PAD. Research in this area may help us find better ways to prevent the development of atherosclerosis and PAD.
Investigators are also researching a new surgical technique called photoangioplasty. This procedure involves the injection of a drug called texaphyrin into the blood vessels. Texaphyrin attaches to the plaques in the blood vessels, and a laser is used to activate the drug and cause the plaque to dissolve.
While some researchers are investigating new ways to prevent and treat PAD, others are currently developing new and improved techniques to diagnose PAD. One such technique uses an ultrasound machine to examine the calf muscles, which may provide an easier and more effective way to diagnose PAD.
|
What is on the horizon?
