Acute limb ischemia (ALI) is a true vascular emergency. It doesn't occur as frequently as the more high-profile conditions as cerebrovascular accidents and acute myocardial infarcts, but it portends similarly high morbidity and mortality risk.
- How do you stage a patient with ALI, based on the Rutherford classification system?
- What is the ED treatment plan?
- Should this patient go to Interventional Radiology or the Operating Room for more definitive management?
Here is the Rutherford Classification table in higher resolution (click to enlarge):
Feel free to download this card and print on a 4'' x 6'' index card.
