South Jersey Physician Honored for Work Treating Potentially Dangerous Artery Disease

GALLOWAY, N.J. — A South Jersey physician has received national recognition for his work treating peripheral artery disease, a potentially serious condition that affects blood circulation and can lead to heart attacks, strokes and limb loss.

Dr. Mike Watts of the Vascular Institute at Atlantic Medical Imaging (AMI) has been named the 2026 Vascular Interventional Radiologist of the Year by the Global PAD Association.

The recognition is part of the organization's 2026 Global PAD Impact Awards, a patient-nominated program honoring physicians, health care teams, researchers and organizations working to improve the diagnosis and treatment of peripheral artery disease, commonly known as PAD.

The award comes during September's PAD Awareness Month, which aims to educate the public about a disease that can go undiagnosed until serious complications develop.

"We are very proud of Dr. Watts, and this award reflects the exceptional care that he and the entire Vascular Institute team provide every day," said Dr. David Levi, CEO of AMI. "They make a profound difference in the lives of the patients whom they serve."

What Is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral artery disease occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing or blocking blood vessels and reducing circulation, most commonly to the legs.

The condition can cause pain, cramping and difficulty walking. In more advanced cases, reduced blood flow can lead to wounds that do not heal, tissue damage and potentially amputation.

PAD is also associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

According to the Global PAD Association, many people are unaware they have the disease until it begins affecting their mobility or overall health.

"Too many people still do not know what PAD is until the disease has already impacted their lives," said Kym McNicholas, founder and CEO of the Global PAD Association.

"These awards provide us with an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the people and teams making a difference while also helping patients understand the warning signs, the importance of early diagnosis, the benefits of walking and medical management, and the need to understand their options when PAD becomes advanced."

Warning Signs Residents Should Know

The Global PAD Association identifies several possible warning signs of peripheral artery disease, including:

• Leg pain or cramping while walking.

• Difficulty walking normal distances.

• Numbness or weakness in the legs.

• Cold feet or changes in skin color.

• Wounds on the feet or toes that are slow to heal.

Symptoms can vary, and some people with PAD experience few or no noticeable warning signs.

In advanced cases, the disease can progress to chronic limb-threatening ischemia, a serious condition involving severely reduced blood flow that can put an affected limb at risk.

Early diagnosis and appropriate medical care can help patients manage the disease and reduce the risk of complications.

People experiencing possible symptoms should discuss them with a health care professional rather than assuming that leg pain or difficulty walking is simply a normal part of aging.

Watts Specializes in Minimally Invasive Vascular Treatment

Watts is board-certified in diagnostic radiology by the American Board of Radiology and fellowship-trained in interventional radiology.

His clinical specialties include advanced peripheral artery disease, minimally invasive cancer treatment, venous disease and the management of portal hypertension.

At the Vascular Institute at AMI, Watts works with a multidisciplinary team that includes vascular interventional radiologists and vascular surgeons.

The institute offers minimally invasive procedures intended to improve circulation and treat vascular conditions, including advanced PAD.

Depending on a patient's condition, minimally invasive treatment may provide an alternative to traditional open surgery, potentially allowing for shorter recovery times.

The institute also treats varicose veins and provides other specialized vascular services.

Recognition Highlights Importance of Early Diagnosis

The Global PAD Impact Awards were developed from the experiences of patients and families living with peripheral artery disease.

The program recognizes work involving prevention, diagnosis, exercise therapy, cardiovascular risk reduction, restoration of blood flow, wound care, limb preservation and patient support.

The organization also provides educational resources and assistance through its Leg Saver Hotline, which helps patients better understand their condition and available treatment options.

McNicholas said the awards are intended not only to recognize medical professionals but also to encourage patients to become more informed about their health.

For South Jersey residents, the recognition highlights specialized vascular care available through a regional medical practice.

Atlantic Medical Imaging operates 29 offices across seven New Jersey counties, including Atlantic, Cape May, Camden, Cumberland, Gloucester, Ocean and Monmouth.

The Vascular Institute provides specialized treatment for patients with circulation problems and other vascular conditions.

For more information about the Vascular Institute at AMI, visit www.vi-ami.com or call 866-356-9286.

Additional information about Atlantic Medical Imaging is available at www.aminj.com.