Ankle Brachial index (ABI): Before initiating compression therapy; it is important to confirm that there is venous, not arterial, insufficiency. Although compression therapy is the mainstay of venous ulcer management, it would be contraindicated in a patient without adequate arterial blood flow.
The ABI gives a good indication of arterial flow.
Toe Brachial Index: Compares the systolic pressure in a toe to the highest brachial systolic pressure. Used for patients with diabetes that have calcified leg arteries with abnormally high ABI of >1.3
