The assessment of peripheral artery disease can be determined using which measurement?

The ankle-brachial index (ABI) is a crucial measurement used in the assessment of peripheral artery disease (PAD). This non-invasive test compares the blood pressure in the patient's ankle with the blood pressure in the arm. The ABI provides valuable insights into the blood flow in the lower extremities and can help identify the presence of PAD, where plaque build-up narrows the peripheral arteries, reducing blood flow to the limbs.

A normal ABI indicates adequate blood flow, while a low ABI suggests reduced blood flow due to vascular blockage. This measurement is particularly useful because it helps quantify the severity of artery blockage, guiding further evaluation and treatment options for patients suspected of having PAD.

In contrast, body mass index (BMI) and blood sugar levels are important metrics in assessing overall health, diabetes risk, and obesity, but they do not directly measure blood flow or arterial health. Cardiac output, which refers to the volume of blood the heart pumps per minute, is relevant to cardiovascular health but is not specifically used for evaluating peripheral artery patency. The ABI specifically targets the function of peripheral arteries, making it the most appropriate choice for assessing peripheral artery disease.