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Updated: Aug 2, 2026
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Computerized Dynamic Posturography for Postural Control Assessment in Patients with Intermittent Claudication
Published on: December 11, 2013
Persistent sciatic artery: an uncommon cause of intermittent claudication
D Kritsch1, H P Hutter, M Hirschl
1Department of Angiology, Hanusch Hospital, Vienna, Austria.
Summary
Conservative therapy, including prostaglandin E1 and lifelong anticoagulation, effectively managed a patient with complete occlusion of a persistent sciatic artery (PSA). This approach resolved intermittent claudication symptoms for three years.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Vascular Anatomy
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- Persistent sciatic artery (PSA) is a rare congenital anomaly where the sciatic artery persists as the main artery to the lower limb.
- Complete occlusion of a PSA can lead to critical limb ischemia and intermittent claudication.
Observation:
- A 54-year-old male presented with symptoms of intermittent claudication in the left limb.
- Angiography revealed bilateral persistent sciatic arteries, with complete occlusion on the left side.
Findings:
- The patient underwent a conservative treatment regimen: 20 intravenous courses of prostaglandin E1 over 4 weeks, followed by lifelong oral anticoagulation with phenprocoumon (INR 2.5-3.5).
- After 3 years of treatment, the patient remained asymptomatic with no recurrence of intermittent claudication or limb ischemia.
Implications:
- Conservative management, including prostaglandin therapy and anticoagulation, can be a viable and effective treatment option for symptomatic occluded persistent sciatic artery.
- This case highlights the importance of regular clinical and duplex sonography follow-up (every 3-6 months) for patients undergoing conservative management of PSA occlusion.
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