NCT07226193 · University of Nebraska
Detecting Peripheral Artery Disease With the Pulse
What this study is about
1\) The purpose of this study is to assess segmental pulse arrival time (PAT) as an alternative biomarker to detect lower-extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD), and to investigate the impacts of local skin heating and foot elevation. The secondary purpose will be to investigate the impacts of age on segmental PAT.
View original scientific description
1\) The purpose of this study is to assess segmental pulse arrival time (PAT) as an alternative biomarker to detect lower-extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD), and to investigate the impacts of local skin heating and foot elevation. The secondary purpose will be to investigate the impacts of age on segmental PAT. The subject population will include any adults 19 years of age or older with or without PAD. Exclusion criteria include having an aortic aneurysm with or without previous intervention, previous revascularization surgeries of the arteries in the legs/aorta, walking impairments independent of PAD, gangrene or ulcers of the toes/feet, and currently pregnant or breastfeeding. 3) All aims of the present study will be completed with a single laboratory visit. Descriptive measurements will include height, weight, age, sex, body fat percentage, and self-reported medication and health history. Subjects will lie in the supine position for 20-min. After rest, either the ankle-brachial index (ABI) or PAT will be assessed. After 10-min of further rest, the other measurement will be performed. ABIs will be assessed according to current guidelines: blood pressures will be assessed in the dorsal pedis and tibialis posterior arteries of both legs and the brachial arteries of both arms using a blood pressure cuff and Doppler ultrasound. PAT will be simultaneously assessed in both arms and legs using an investigational device with a 3-lead electrocardiogram sensor and four photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors. A PPG sensor will be applied to a finger on each hand and both big toes. Signals will be collected for 15-min with finger and toe sensor temperatures at 30 C. Toe sensor temperature will then be elevated to 45 C for 15-min. Finally, toe sensor temperature will remain at 45 C, and the feet will be elevated 8-in with a soft cushion for 15-min. Blood pressure in the arm and legs will be assessed at the end of each stage. Thermal images of the fingers and toes will be assessed before using the investigational device and after each stage. Subjects will then participate in a 6-min walking test (6MWT) to objectively establish walking capacity. The 6MWT will be performed in accordance with current guidelines. Segmental PATs will be compared with ABI and 6-min walking time to determine if segmental PATs can predict lower-extremity PAD (ABI) and the associated walking impairment (6MWT). This study is expected to last \~2.5hrs. 4) There will be no follow-up.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- be able to provide written informed consent
- be 19 years of age or older
- having or not having a diagnosis of peripheral artery disease
Exclusion criteria
- having a current or pervious aortic aneurysm with or without previous intervention
- having previous revascularization surgeries (open or endovascular) of the legs or aorta
- having walking impairments independent of lower-limb ischemia (e.g., musculoskeletal injury)
- having gangrene or ulcers of the toes/feet
- being currently pregnant or breastfeeding
Where
- Omaha, Nebraska
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 19, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations