Yes, because it only measures pressure at the ankle and therefore does not account for possible distal
occlusions, such as microemboli or small atherosclerotic plaques. Moreover, the ABPI may be
falsely elevated in Mönckeberg’s sclerosis, the medial wall calcification of many diabetic patients. In this
condition, the ABPI reflects more the ability of the heavily calcified vessel to resist compression than the
true blood flow (and pressure) within it. In these patients, toe pressure determinations may more
accurately reflect lower extremity perfusion.
occlusions, such as microemboli or small atherosclerotic plaques. Moreover, the ABPI may be
falsely elevated in Mönckeberg’s sclerosis, the medial wall calcification of many diabetic patients. In this
condition, the ABPI reflects more the ability of the heavily calcified vessel to resist compression than the
true blood flow (and pressure) within it. In these patients, toe pressure determinations may more
accurately reflect lower extremity perfusion.