The Limb Preservation Program, a collaboration between the Heart Clinic and South Texas Health System, is an innovative program that helps improve the quality of life for patients who suffer from peripheral artery disease (PAD). Hidalgo County has an extremely high incidence of amputation. The goal of the program is to enhance awareness of PAD, achieve early detection and provide treatment to reduce the number of limb amputations.

The Limb Preservation Program features a variety of diagnostic methods and treatment options for PAD. The program is built on a foundation of education for the area’s front line providers — nurse practitioners and family medicine doctors. It is a model of integrated medicine in which primary care providers, the hospital, the wound care center and the vascular specialists work together to save limbs and save lives.

Collaborative Approach

We have specialized tools to help detect PAD, including the LUNA Fluorescence Angiography System and PADnet® vascular testing device. The LUNA System provides real-time images of blood circulation to help evaluate PAD and other conditions. The PADnet device is a non-invasive test and collaborative care platform used for the early detection of PAD and venous diseases.

PADnet collaborators can input patient information onto a shared database for tracking and monitoring among the patient’s care providers. Primary care doctors can identify abnormalities and send data directly to the vascular specialist for more advanced treatment.

Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)

This simple exam compares the blood pressure in your feet to the blood pressure in your arms to determine how well your blood is flowing. An abnormal difference may indicate PAD.

Smoking Cessation Program

Smoking increases your chance of having PAD. Smoking also makes PAD worse and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Quitting smoking can help lower your risk. Our smoking cessation program offers a variety of methods to help you quit.