Chronic total occlusion (CTO) is a complete or nearly complete blockage of one or more coronary arteries. The blockage, typically present for at least three months, is caused by a buildup of plaque within a coronary artery. When this happens, blood flow to the heart is compromised.
Frequently Asked Questions about peripheral arterial disease or PAD (sometimes called peripheral vascular disease) and how the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center's Peripheral Arterial Disease Clinic can help.
Treatments for peripheral artery disease or PAD (sometimes called peripheral vascular disease) include both surgical and non-surgical options. All PAD patients are treated using risk factor management and exercise. Surgery is reserved for patients with the most serious symptoms.
The difference between peripheral artery disease or PAD (sometimes called peripheral vascular disease) and heart disease is that the blockages are outside your heart, usually in the legs. The University of Michigan’s Peripheral Arterial Disease Program brings together a multidisciplinary team of physicians to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
