Non-traditional and Emerging Treatments for Intermittent Claudication
摘要
Novel therapies for intermittent claudication are being developed and implemented as alternatives to traditional revascularization-based strategies. Prior research has suggested that improvements in pain-free and absolute walking distance can be achieved with the use of L-arginine and carnitine supplementation. Other medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and statins, are also being utilized in patients with claudication for their beneficial effects on the nitric oxide pathway. In addition to pharmacologics, other non-invasive therapies that can be implemented in a patient’s home, such as intermittent pneumatic compression and extracorporeal shockwave therapy, may be utilized to reduce symptoms. Lastly, biologic therapies, including stem cell and nanotherapy, are also being explored. Overall, many of these approaches remain in experimental phases and are not widely implemented but offer promise in the management of patients with intermittent claudication.