[The behavior of collaterals during percutaneous transluminal angioplasty]

The fate of 106 collaterals was investigated following percutaneous transluminal dilatation of 113 stenoses and occlusions. Following dilatation, 78% of collaterals were unchanged and 22% could no longer be demonstrated. The success of the dilatation had no bearing on the fate of the collaterals. Collaterals beginning or ending in a dilated portion of vessel disappeared more frequently (30%) than the others (11%). Following five dilatations, some vessels were demonstrated in the area of stenosis, which had not been demonstrated previously. Evidently local events, such as displacement of arteriosclerotic plaques may lead to occlusion or reopening of vessels. Remaining collaterals may be of great importance in saving a limb if there is an acute occlusion complicating a dilatation.