VT ABI & Segmental Pressure Testing 3

Question 1

A segmental study reveals a normal high-thigh pressure but a 35 mmHg drop at the below-knee cuff. Where is the occlusive lesion most likely located?

Accepted Answer

Popliteal artery

Answer

A significant pressure drop between the above-knee and below-knee cuffs localizes the obstructive lesion to the popliteal artery segment.

Question 2

What is the primary reason photoplethysmography (PPG) is used alongside segmental pressures in some vascular labs?

Accepted Answer

To assess digital perfusion when ankle pressures are unreliable

Answer

PPG detects digital pulse waveforms at the toe level, providing perfusion data when calcified vessels make ankle pressures unreliable.

Question 3

During post-exercise ABI testing, how soon after the treadmill protocol should ankle pressures be measured?

Accepted Answer

Immediately within 1–2 minutes, then every 2–3 minutes for up to 10 minutes

Answer

Post-exercise pressures should be measured immediately and serially because the pressure nadir occurs quickly and recovery time also carries diagnostic value.

Question 4

Which ABI value best represents borderline or mild PAD according to standard ACC/AHA guidelines?

Accepted Answer

0.70–0.90

Answer

An ABI of 0.70–0.90 is classified as mild PAD, while values 0.50–0.69 indicate moderate disease and below 0.50 indicate severe disease.

Question 5

In a three-cuff segmental pressure technique, which arterial segment cannot be individually assessed compared to the four-cuff method?

Accepted Answer

Superficial femoral artery

Answer

The three-cuff method lacks separate high-thigh and above-knee cuffs, so it cannot independently isolate SFA disease from aortoiliac disease.

(VT) Vascular Technician Certification Practice Test

(VT) Vascular Technician Certification Practice Test

VT ABI & Segmental Pressure Testing 3