Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the femoropopliteal artery: initial and long-term results.

TLDR

The study evaluated patients with dilated femoropopliteal stenoses and recanalized occlusions to determine the initial and long‑term outcomes of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA). Patients were followed for a minimum of one year after PTA. PTA achieved an 84 % initial success rate, with 5‑ and 7‑year patency of 70 % and 60 %; success was affected by operator experience, catheter choice, and lesion characteristics, yet the procedure remains justified, especially for localized stenoses and short occlusions.

Abstract

Patients with dilated stenoses and recanalized occlusions were evaluated to assess the initial and long-term results of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) in the femoropopliteal artery. The follow-up period was at least 1 year. The initial success rate was 84% (128/164). The initial results were influenced by the radiologist's experience, catheter selection, and type of lesion. The 5- and 7-year cumulative patency rates were 70% and 60%. There was no difference in long-term patency between initially successful stenoses and short (less than 3 cm) occlusions. Both the morphology and location of the stenotic lesion influenced the long-term results. Although many factors influence the initial and long-term success rate, results of this study justify PTA in the femoropopliteal artery. Patients with localized stenoses and short occlusions are best suited for this treatment.