What is the worst complication of PVD?

• A. Mild edema
• B. Gangrene or severe tissue damage due to lack of blood flow
• C. Spontaneous venous thrombosis
• D. Pulmonary embolism

Answer: (B)

In peripheral vascular disease, arteries are narrowed and limb tissues receive less blood. When blood flow is critically reduced, tissue becomes ischemic and can progress to death. The most serious outcome is gangrene or extensive tissue damage from lack of oxygen and nutrients, which can lead to infection and even loss of the limb. That’s why this option is the best answer.

Mild edema is more typical of venous issues or heart-related fluid overload, not a direct result of arterial ischemia. Spontaneous venous thrombosis is a venous problem, not an arterial one like PVD. Pulmonary embolism stems from a venous clot traveling to the lungs, again not a primary complication of arterial peripheral vascular disease.