Abstract 244: Arterial Calcification Decreases Functional Recovery in a Murine Model of Hindlimb Ischemia.

Objectives: Clinical studies have demonstrated associations between arterial calcification and adverse outcomes among patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The causal relationship between calcification and the pathophysiology of ischemia, however, remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the effects of vitamin D3-induced arterial calcification on functional recovery and resolution of ischemia in the rat hindlimb model. Methods: Arterial calcification was induced in 14 Sprague-Dawley rats using Vitamin D3. A control group of 14 rats received vehicle only. After 2 weeks to allow for calcification, unilateral hindlimb ischemia was induced by ligation and excision of the superficial femoral artery. Functional status and ischemia status were evaluated weekly for 1 month in a blinded manner. Results: 28 rats were assessed at all designated time periods. Arterial calcification was significantly greater in Vitamin D3-treated animals than in controls. Vitamin D3-treated rats had significantly worse ...