The Ankle Brachial Index (ABI)
- The ankle brachial index, or ABI, is a simple, inexpensive, efficient clinic-based test that can accurately diagnose PAD in about 15 minutes.
- This test can be performed easily during public individual primary care clinic visits.
- This test compares the blood pressure in the arms with the blood pressure in the ankles. An ankle pressure that is lower than the arm pressure indicates that there is a blockage somewhere in the arteries between the heart and the ankle.
- The ABI is considered the "gold standard" for determining the presence of PAD and assessing its severity.
- The procedure can be performed by a physician, nurse, or trained clinic technician in the clinic.
- An abnormal ABI confirms the diagnosis of PAD. Effective interventions/therapies can then be prescribed. People with PAD are a a significantly increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and disease progression.
Download this ABI Intro (PDF)
The Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) Resources
- ABI at a glance (PDF)
- ABI Checklist (PDF)
- ABI Data Collection Form (PDF)
- ABI Log (PDF)
- ABI Tips and Tricks (PDF)
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Resources
- Claudication scale with descriptors (Word document)