Menu
Ankle-Brachial Index Test

Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) Test in Patchogue, New Hyde Park & Hicksville

A Noninvasive Way to Monitor Blood Flow to the Extremities

Ankle Brachial Index TestIn peripheral arterial disease or PAD, the rate of blood flow to the arms and legs is compromised, resulting in an elevated risk of heart attacks or strokes. At Brookhaven Heart, we offer a non-invasive method of identifying PAD: the ankle-brachial index test.

What Happens in an Ankle-Brachial Index Test?

An ankle-brachial index test, also referred to as an ABI test, measures and compares blood pressure from a patient’s arms and ankles. Often, doctors ask patients to take one ABI test at rest and another after spending five minutes on a treadmill.

Benefits of an ABI Test

In addition to facilitating diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease, an ABI test can help your doctor monitor your progress after stenting or other treatments. You can complete an ABI test in just one office visit, making the procedure a simple but effective way to identify and address potential problems. Your cardiologist might combine your ABI test with a carotid ultrasound, which offers additional diagnostic capabilities.

What is a normal ABI?

An ankle-brachial index (ABI) is the ratio of the blood pressure at the ankle to the blood pressure in the upper arm. An ABI test functions by measuring and comparing blood pressure from a patient’s ankles and arms to determine if a patient has peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

So, what’s a normal ABI rate? According to most doctors, a normal rate is between 1.0 to 1.4 – if this is the result of your ABI test, it suggests that you don’t have any potentially problematic blockages in your blood flow.

Do you have further questions about the ankle-brachial index test? Don’t hesitate to contact Brookhaven Heart today!

Ankle-Brachial Index Test Cost

An ankle-brachial index test is performed by measuring blood pressure at the ankle and arm while at rest. Some complete the test while exercising. In this case, the blood pressure measurements are repeated after a few minutes of walking. We use this analysis to predict the severity of peripheral artery disease. As such, it’s a very useful test. As we grow older, tests such as this can be helpful in predicting health complications. Undergoing the procedure is crucial to determine your risk.

At Brookhaven Heart, we price our services and tests appropriately. We understand that, even with insurance, medical costs are high these days. We want more people to live healthier lives. As such, we’re transparent in our testing costs. You’ll know what you’re paying and how much by the end of your consultation. We urge you to ask any questions regarding payment or insurance, too. The more you know, the better an informed decision you can make.

Preparation for Ankle-brachial Index Test

Typically, with an ankle-brachial index test, there are few unique instructions to adhere to. Before the appointment, it’s best to relax. Take things easy and prepare yourself mentally for the test. There is no hardship, and the trial should not take a lot out of you. However, some find themselves nervous with any type of medical procedure.

For the test, you may want to consider loose, comfortable clothing. Such an outfit will allow the technician easy access when performing the test. A blood pressure cuff will be placed on the ankle and upper arm. Restricting clothing may prevent the technician from adequately applying the cuffs, making the procedure more drawn-out and challenging to complete. Overall, the test is quite simple. You’ll be in and out before you know it. However, if you have any questions whatsoever, do not be afraid to bring them up with your doctor.

What You Can Expect

Once you’ve scheduled your test, spoken with your doctor, and prepared yourself accordingly, it’s time to undergo the procedure. Knowing what to expect is half the battle. By being informed, you better increase your chances of a more straightforward process all around. That’s not to say an ankle-brachial index test is difficult. It’s honestly quite simple.

During the test, you’ll lie on the table, and a technician will measure your current blood pressure using an inflatable cuff. The very same ones you’ve used in a general physician’s office. Then, with your measurements recorded, the technician will measure the blood pressure in two arteries in your ankles, and a hand-held Doppler ultrasound device will be pressed against your skin. In some cases, exercise may be required. You’ll walk on a treadmill briskly for a time; then the blood pressure measurements will take place. Overall, the entire test takes mere minutes to complete.

Find Out More Today

Contact the professionals at Brookhaven Heart today to learn more about if an ankle-brachial index test is right for you.

Patchogue: (631) 654-3278

New Hyde Park: (631) 654-3278

You can also complete our easy online form.

Thank you for choosing Brookhaven Heart.

Welcome to Brookhaven Heart

  • ➤ Use online appointment booking for non-emergent medical conditions only. 
  • ➤ If your insurance requires a referral to see a specialist, you should obtain it from your PCP prior to your visit, failing which you shall be responsible for full payment for the visit.
  • ➤ Please bring your medications, results of recent labs, and tests if any on the day of your visit 
  • ➤ Please bring your updated insurance card and a valid form of ID such as a driver’s license.
  • ➤ Co-payments are due on the day of the visit. We accept credit cards, cash, or check.
  • ➤ When you arrive at our facility, please ask our staff to register you for the patient portal, which enables you to access your medical record, view lab results, request refills, and send e-messages to our office. 

We thank you for choosing us