Effects of Shock Wave Therapy on a Patient with Co-Occurring Vascular Congenital Malformation and Buerger's Disease

Background: Intermittent claudication (IC) is a common symptom of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) mostly caused by arterial stenosis and/or occlusion in the lower extremities, typically resulting from atherosclerosis. Although less frequent, congenital vascular malformations and thromboangiitis obliterans, also known as Buerger’s disease (BD), can also cause IC, leading to progressively worsening symptoms, especially during walking. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that has been studied for its potential to promote neovascularization and vasodilation in PAD. Case Report: We present a man with congenital bilateral deep femoral artery agenesis and concomitant BD who underwent ESWT of the leg muscles. The treatment significantly improved his walking abilities, alleviated pain, and enhanced his quality of life, which persisted even 18 months after treatment. Conclusion: Functional and clinical improvements, in addition to quality of life, suggest that ESWT could represent a promising symptomatic treatment for PAD.