Intermittent Claudication

Approximately 7% to 9% of persons with peripheral vascular disease develop intermittent claudication, the primary symptom of obstructive vascular disease of the lower extremity. In cases of severe arterial insufficiency, necrosis, neuropathy, and atrophy may occur.

Waiting period

Minimum — 3 months for post-surgical repair

You should not certify the driver until etiology is confirmed and treatment has been shown to be adequate/effective, safe, and stable.

NOTE: If more than one waiting period applies (because of multiple cardiac conditions or other comorbid diseases), examine the driver for certification after the completion of the longest waiting period.

Decision

Maximum certification — 1 year

Recommend to certify if:

The driver, following surgery has:

• Relief of symptoms.
• No other disqualifying cardiovascular disease.

Recommend not to certify if:

The driver has pain at rest.

Monitoring/Testing

You may on a case-by-case basis obtain additional tests and/or consultation to adequately assess driver medical fitness for duty.

Follow-up

The driver should have an annual medical examination.

Peripheral Vascular Disease Recommendation Table (PDF)