Outcome of a failed percutaneous transluminal dilation

One hundred and ninety-eight TLD failures have been analyzed from a total experience of 631 balloon dilations over the past five years. The clinical status of patients after a failure was generally the same as before the treatment. The morbidity was low and in no situation was limb loss directly attributable to the procedure. The early results of operation after a failure are similar to those found in patients who have not had a prior dilation. We conclude that TLD is a relatively safe procedure and may be considered as an alternative to surgical treatment in selected instances.