Purpose of review: In recent years, there have been advances in the prevention, management, and control of peripheral vascular disease (PVD). There is a trend towards aggressive risk factor modification, noninvasive screening, and endovascular revascularization with surgical approaches reserved only for select cases. This article reviews the different management strategies ranging from pharmacotherapy, revascularization, and rehabilitation with an emphasis on the response of women to these therapies.
Recent findings: Overall, the representation of women in the majority of the published data in this arena remains poor. Studies examining medical therapy and endovascular and surgical revascularization were not designed to address sex disparities. Nevertheless, we dissect these therapies and their relevant randomized trials. The paucity of data investigating the response of women to the different management options makes it difficult to make any evidence-based recommendations. This not only applies to the type of intervention, but also the appropriate timing and risks entailed.
Keywords: Endovascular revascularization; Peripheral vascular disease; Surgery; Women.