What Is ABI (Ankle-Brachial Index)? — The Simple Test That Detects PAD Early
The ABI test takes 15 minutes, requires no needles, and can detect dangerous arterial disease before you develop symptoms. Every diabetic patient should have this test annually.
What Is the ABI Test?
The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) is a simple comparison of blood pressure measured at the ankle versus the arm. In a healthy person, the ankle pressure should be at least equal to the arm pressure — an ABI of 1.0–1.3. In PAD, the narrowed leg arteries reduce blood pressure reaching the ankle, giving a lower reading.
Interpreting ABI Results
| ABI Value | Interpretation | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0–1.3 | Normal | Annual monitoring if high-risk |
| 0.9–1.0 | Borderline | Lifestyle modification; retest in 6 months |
| 0.7–0.9 | Mild PAD | Medical management + close monitoring |
| 0.5–0.7 | Moderate PAD | Vascular specialist referral |
| 0.4–0.5 | Severe PAD | Urgent vascular intervention |
| <0.4 | Critical limb ischaemia | Emergency intervention — risk of gangrene |
Who Should Have an ABI Test?
- All diabetic patients over 50 — annually
- Anyone who smokes and is over 40
- Patients with leg pain when walking
- Anyone with a non-healing foot wound
- Patients with known heart disease (PAD and coronary artery disease often coexist)
ABI at Medanta Lucknow
ABI testing is available as part of a vascular assessment clinic with Dr. Rohit Agarwal. For patients with abnormal ABI, further testing (Doppler, CT angiography) and PAD angioplasty in Lucknow can be planned in the same visit.
Book an ABI test and vascular assessment. Call +91 860-445-3663, Medanta Hospital Lucknow.
Ready to Explore This Treatment?
Book a consultation with Dr. Rohit Agarwal to discuss if this approach is right for you.
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