Percutaneous Revascularization of Lower Extremity Arterial Disease in Females Compared to Males

The outcome of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) of lower extremity peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in females is not well documented. Between June 1988 and June 1994, 206 patients underwent 293 PTA procedures for symptomatic PAD. Females (63 patients, 97 PTA procedures) and males (143 patients, 196 PTA procedures) were analyzed and compared. Female patients were older than male patients, had lower prevalence of coronary artery disease and were more often hypertensive. Both groups had similar prevalence of diabetes, hyperlipidemia and cigarette smoking. Success rate in females was 98% versus 96% in males for all lesions (p = NS), and 96% versus 81% (p < 0.003) for occluded vessels. Complication rates were low and did not differ significantly between groups, with the exception of the need for blood transfusions (3% versus 0%, p < 0.05, females versus males). At a mean follow-up of 25 +/- 20 months, 60% of female patients and 77% of male patients claimed symptomatic improvement (p < 0.05). There was no gender-related difference in the subsequent PTA or bypass surgery. We conclude that PTA appears to be an effective treatment modality for symptomatic PAD in female patients which can be performed at very low risk.