Journal of General Practice

George L Higgins

Publications

• Research Article
  What is the Potential for False Positive Results in Ankle Brachial Index Measurements Performed by Emergency Providers?
  Author(s): George L HigginsGeorge L Higgins
  
  Introduction: The Ankle-Brachial Index measurement (ABI) is an easily performed bedside test used to screen for lower extremity arterial injury. It is possible that the ABI is not always correctly performed in the acute setting, depending on available equipment and provider familiarity with validated measurement techniques. We sought to determine the potential for false positive ABI results in healthy subjects if the ABI is performed incorrectly. We also sought to identify the method most likely to minimize false positive results. Materials and methods: Healthy volunteers and low acuity emergency department patients were enrolled. Exclusion criteria included a known history of documented peripheral arterial disease or extremity trauma. Subjects were examined by two investigators. “Most Accurate” (MA) ABI measurements used the higher of the two ankle readings and the higher.. Read More»
  DOI: 10.4172/2329-9126.1000129

  Abstract PDF