I have PAD that was diagnosed over 10 years ago and like you couldn't walk very far without severe calf pain, The vascular surgeon performed what is called a Fem/Pop bypass and I can tell you that it is an operation that is not for the weak of heart, major nerves get cut and the ongoing neuropathy is something that I would wish for nobody, The only thing I can recommend is to walk then walk some more, when the pain starts rest until it stops then start again, hopefully you will build up what is called collateral arteries that will help with your walking and keep you away from the scalpel, good luck. There is also a great PAD Facebook page that has tons of peer related info.