Abstract
Chronic critical limb ischemia (CLTI - chronic limb threatening ischemia) is considered the most serious type of peripheral artery disease. It is defined by the presence of chronic ischemic rest pain, ulceration or gangrene, due to occlusion of peripheral arterial vessels.
It is associated with a high risk of major amputations, cardiovascular events and death. Treatment of patients with CLTI places a significant economic burden on healthcare systems worldwide.
An overview of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of CLTI is presented.