Thromboangiitis obliterans

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Circulatory system

Thromboangiites obliterans

Buerger's disease

There is no cure for thromboangiitis obliterans. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms.

The patient must stop smoking if the affected extremity is to be saved. Cold temperatures and other conditions that reduce circulation to the extremities should be avoided. Attempts to increase circulation may include applying warmth and gently exercising the affected area.

Surgical sympathectomy (cutting the nerves to the area) may help control pain. Aspirin and vasodilators may also used. Amputation of the extremity may be necessary if infection or extensive tissue death occurs.

Symptoms of thromboangiitis obliterans may disappear if the person stops tobacco use. For some, amputation is unavoidable.

• Gangrene (tissue death)
• Loss of circulation beyond the affected extremity
• Amputation

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate thromboangiitis obliterans is present, if symptoms worsen despite treatment, or if new symptoms develop.

Review Date: 11/29/2006
Reviewed By: Mark James Borigini, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.