Stent grafts in occlusive arterial disease

The use of endovascular grafts for the treatment of occlusive arterial disease continues to evolve as the sophistication of currently available devices improves with regard to device composition and delivery systems. Endovascular grafting for occlusive arterial disease is particularly useful in high-risk patients with medical comorbidities who are otherwise unfit for a major operation and conventional open repair. The early term and midterm results on the treatment of occlusive, iliac, and femoropopliteal disease have been encouraging. Further refinements in catheter technology, stent grafts, and delivery systems will further extend the use of these devices. Increasing experience from centers using different devices and long-term follow-up with regard to durability and complication will establish the role of endovascular grafts as alternatives to conventional repair.