[Arterial thrombolysis. Review and future prospects]

After describing the mechanism of action, results and local and general complications of classical thrombolytic agents (streptokinase and urokinase) administered systemically, locally and peroperatively, then of modern thrombolytic agents (acyl enzyme, tPA and scuPA), the future perspectives of arterial fibrinolysis are discussed. These are based upon: analysis of the comparative efficacy of the different thrombolytic agents in the light of results seen, not only in peripheral arterial pathology but also in other indications, as in coronary pathology; discussion of the methods of administration of the thrombolytic agent in such a way as to obtain an optimal local concentration and at the same time reduced systemic fibrinolysis. better definition of the indications of thrombolysis in acute ischemia of the limbs in comparison with other therapeutic approaches, in particular surgery, taking into account the degree of ischemia, of etiological mechanism and the site of the arterial obstruction.