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日本語Interventional radiology · Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) Treatment in Karlsruhe
Treat circulatory disorders together in the vascular team.
In peripheral arterial disease (PAD), arteries become narrowed or blocked. This can reduce blood supply to the legs. At Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, the vascular team jointly assesses whether catheter treatment, surgery or initial conservative treatment is appropriate.
- Complaint
- For example, leg pain on exertion
- Procedures
- Balloon dilatation, with a stent if needed
- Caretaker
- Interdisciplinary in the certified Vascular centre
When is vascular intervention considered?
Walking distance, rest pain, wounds and vascular findings determine the urgency. Not every bottleneck needs to be treated immediately. This is based on a clinical examination and appropriate vascular diagnostics, such as Ultrasound; Medical imaging is supplemented if necessary.
For exercise-related complaints, movement therapy and the treatment of risk factors are part of the concept. In the case of threatened tissue, rapid restoration of blood flow may be necessary.
PTA and stent: How is the vessel treated?
In percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), a catheter is advanced through a vascular access site to the narrowed area. A small balloon widens the narrowing. A vascular support called a stent may be inserted if additional support is needed.
Location and extension of the closure, concomitant diseases and previous interventions influence the choice. Whether a catheter procedure, a vascular surgery treatment or a combination is suitable will be discussed in the vascular team.
What are the limits and risks?
Possible Bleeding at the access, vascular injuries, re-closure or transfer of material into smaller arteries. Contrast agent and radiation exposure are taken into account in the planning. A technically opened artery does not always lead to the desired improvement of the complaint.
Even after successful treatment, a vessel can constrict again. In some situations, further interventions or surgery are necessary.
Medical references: [1]
What remains important after the procedure?
Catheter treatment does not eliminate the underlying vascular disease. The agreed drug treatment, smoking cessation, appropriate exercise and control of risk factors remain important. Vessel and, if necessary, wound controls are planned individually.
Do not change anticoagulant medication on your own. If a leg suddenly becomes very painful, cold or pale, or if new loss of sensation or movement occurs, seek emergency medical assessment immediately.
Medical references: [2]
Frequently asked questions on Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) & vascular interventions
Does Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) always require a stent?
No. Depending on the vascular findings, a balloon treatment may be sufficient or a different procedure may be useful. The decision is made on the basis of the result and the outcome of the treatment.
Can I discontinue medication after an intervention?
Do not stop medication on your own. Your treatment team determines which medicines are needed and for how long.
Your next step
Personal advice in Karlsruhe
For counselling, vascular findings, existing CT/MRI or angiography, reports of previous vascular procedures and a current medication plan are helpful. Indicate walking distance, rest pain and existing wounds.
Please also bring your current medication list and tell us about any known allergies. The reception team will explain which additional documents are needed and how imaging can be transferred securely. Only change your medication after consulting a doctor.
Privately insured and self-paying patients
Head physician’s office
0721 974-1901Consultations and costs ↗Treatment location: Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, Moltkestraße 90, 76133 Karlsruhe. Two beds are available for short inpatient monitoring and interventional care. The type and duration of your stay depend on the procedure and your health.
An enquiry does not guarantee that an intervention will be offered. A personal consultation considers benefits, risks and alternatives. In an acute medical emergency, call 112.
Medical references & additional information
- CIRSE: Angioplasty and stent treatment ↗
- NHS: treatment of peripheral arterial disease ↗
- AWMF / DGA: S3 guideline to Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), register 065-003 ↗
- NHS Cornwall: vascular symptoms and emergency clearance ↗
Scientific work involving PD Dr. Nadjiri
The works illuminate individual questions and do not prove a blanket effectiveness for each treatment case.
Editorially responsible: PD Dr. med. Jonathan Nadjiri · Editorial update: 26 September 2026. These texts were prepared with AI assistance using the linked medical references. They do not replace individual medical counselling.