Arterial Disease

Atherosclerosis

The most common cause of arterial disease (stenosis/occlusion) is atherosclerosis.  It is a disease of large and medium sized arteries and is characterized by endothelial cell dysfunction, vascular inflammation, and the accumulation of lipids, cholesterol, and cellular debris within the intima of the vessel wall.  This accrual of cellular and matrix elements leads to the formation of a fibrocellular plaque creating luminal obstruction, hindrance of blood flow, and ultimately, diminished oxygen delivery to distal organs and tissues.

The pathophysiology of atherosclerosis is beyond the scope of this tutorial, and was best covered during the 2nd year of medical school (MOD I).  For the purposes of the ambulatory surgery clerkship, 3 final pathways of atherosclerotic disease will be reviewed.  Each illustrates the importance of prevention, by keeping our patients fit, eating healthy, and smoke-free, as these risk factors are the leading culprits for the initiation of disease.