Toe pulse study in ischemic arterial disease of the legs.

The toe pulse reappearance time study for ischemic arterial disease of the lower limb is an easy and accurate test which has great usefulness as a rapid screening method. It is well tolerated by the patients with ischemic arterial disease. Results of the test reflect the total blood flow, including that through the collateral vessels. They determine the severity of the occlusive arterial disease of the lower limb but do not determine the specific levels of arterial occlusion. A principle area of usefulness of the test is for patients who cannot exercise, such as those with a painful ulcer, incapacitating claudication and cardiopulmonary disease.