Management of Obesity in Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease

This CT scan performed at the abdominal level to show the distribution of the visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue. There are very important differences in morphology, physiology, metabolic activity and hormonal sensitivity between the two compartments. The visceral adipose tissue compartment has especially a metabolic role, while the abdominal subcutaneous compartment has rather a function of energy store.

The abdominal distribution of fat mass is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. This risk is especially elevated when waist circumference is above 88 and 102cm respectively in women and men.

Outpatient management take in several steps in according to severity of obesity and associated comorbidities and motivational readiness of patient. The management goals are modified and adapted in function of obtained results. A muldisciplinary team for management of eating disorders and/or bariatric surgery may be required.