On 22/6, Dr. Duong Duy Trang, Second Degree Specialist, Medical Deputy Director and Head of Cardiology - Interventional Cardiology Department at Gia An 115 Hospital, reported that a patient suffering from severe aching pain, numbness in both legs, and restricted movement was diagnosed with a complete blockage of the main arteries supplying blood to her legs. A vascular CT scan revealed a thrombus completely occluding the distal infrarenal abdominal aorta, extending into both common iliac arteries.

Location of the blocked blood vessel on the scan. *Photo: Hospital provided*

Dr. Trang explained that the patient suffered from Leriche syndrome (aortoiliac occlusion), an advanced form of chronic vascular disease, which severely reduced blood flow to both lower limbs. This critical condition can lead to severe limb ischemia, irreversible tissue damage, and even loss of limb function.

The patient had experienced warning signs for many months but did not suspect a vascular condition. This is a typical manifestation of peripheral artery disease, often mistaken for arthritis, sciatica, or age-related health decline, leading to delayed treatment.

Beyond common risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, the patient also had chronic atrial fibrillation. This heart rhythm disorder significantly increases the risk of blood clot formation in the heart chambers, making atrial fibrillation one of the leading causes of embolism.

"Atrial fibrillation can cause brain strokes", the doctor explained, "but blood clots can also travel to many other parts of the body, causing acute arterial occlusion in the limbs, kidneys, or major arteries."

Medical staff at Gia An 115 Hospital performing an intervention for the patient. *Photo: Hospital provided*

The interventional cardiology team successfully re-opened the blocked artery using balloon angioplasty and placed two self-expanding stents in the aortoiliac system. This restored blood flow to the patient's legs, significantly improving perfusion. The patient recovered stably and was discharged after three days.

Doctors advise individuals over 50, especially those with underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, a history of smoking, or atrial fibrillation, to be vigilant for signs like: leg pain when walking, needing to stop and rest after a short distance, cold numbness in the feet, frequent cramps, or slow-healing leg wounds. Persistent leg pain can indicate musculoskeletal problems or vascular disease. Early medical examination for unusual symptoms is crucial to prevent severe complications.

Le Phuong