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The peripheral vascular system is the part of the circulatory system that consists of the veins and arteries not in the chest or abdomen (i.e. in the arms, hands, legs and feet).[1][2] The peripheral arteries supply oxygenated blood to the body, and the peripheral veins lead deoxygenated blood from the capillaries in the extremities back to the heart.[3]
Peripheral veins are the most common intravenous access method in both hospitals and paramedic services for a peripheral intravenous (IV) line for intravenous therapy.[4][5][6]
In some cases blockages in the peripheral arteries may be treated with catheterization and balloon dilatation instead of surgery.[7][8]
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is the narrowing of the arteries to the legs, stomach, arms and head.
Disorders of arteries that supply the brain with blood are considered separately as cerebrovascular disease. Disorders that reduce blood flow of arteries in the abdomen are considered separately as abdominal aortic branch occlusion.