[Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of peripheral arteries: past, present and future]

Balloon percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) has been described in 1974 and has since been considerably refined with the improvement of balloon catheters, guide wires and radiology equipment. Laser and other mechanical recanalization devices have not hold to their initial promises. Clinical and angiographic indications for PTA have been better defined over the years, resulting in excellent clinical successes with low morbidity and very low mortality. PTA has become an almost painless procedure and may be done on an outpatient basis. It is considered as the treatment of first choice in suitable patients.