Overview

• University of Surrey researchers applied a forefoot Doppler ultrasound waveform to estimate the toe–brachial index in 155 limbs, reducing test time compared with traditional cuff-based methods.
• The estimated toe–brachial index matched or exceeded the accuracy of the standard test and delivered more consistent results across different operators and ultrasound machines.
• By using handheld Doppler devices already common in clinics, the eTBI approach could broaden access to peripheral artery disease screening outside specialist centers.
• Earlier detection of circulation impairment through this technique may help prevent severe complications such as foot ulcers and lower-limb amputations.
• Researchers plan to automate eTBI measurements and undertake larger clinical validation studies to integrate the method into regular PAD monitoring.