[Percutaneous angioscopy. Report of initial experiences with PTA and local lysis under angioscopic conditions]

In dogs and 11 patients a new endoscopic method for arteries has been developed. The approach is transfemoral, and endoscopy is combined with angiography, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), and local lysis. An ultrathin endoscope with a diameter of 2.4 mm is used, which also provides a working channel with a diameter of 0.4 mm. Guide wires, contrast media, and drugs for local lysis can be inserted through this channel. Under fluoroscopic control, the endoscope is placed in the region of interest, followed by a special method for decreasing blood flow. Endoscopy is documented by video or by a high-speed camera. No complications have occurred. In all patients, it was possible to demonstrate the results of dilatation, recanalization, or local lysis before and after the interventional procedure.