What is an Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABI) Test?
This is a test that uses sound waves to measure the blood pressure in your arms and ankles. The higher blood pressure in your arm is compared to the high blood pressure in each of your ankles. Let your nurse know if you are diabetic, have kidney failure, or hyperparathyroidism as these conditions can affect the results of the test. How does it work? Blood pressures are taken in each arm and on each ankle using a blood pressure cuff and a small, hand held device called a Doppler. A Doppler lets your nurse hear the pulse in your arteries after the blood pressure cuff is deflated. During the ABI procedure, the Doppler will be pressed against the pulses in your arms, tops of your feet, and inside your ankles. Why is an ABI done? The ABI test is done to check for peripheral arterial disease. This is a condition where the arteries in your arms or legs are narrowed. If you have peripheral arterial disease, an ABI can be used to see if your treatment is helping or if another approach may be ne
