Hemodynamic effects of intravenous PGE1 on patients with arterial occlusive disease of the leg

Angiology
|July 1, 1985
PubMed

Insights

Intravenous prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) improved blood flow and skin temperature in the distal leg for patients with arterial occlusive disease. However, calf skin temperature decreased, and the steal phenomenon was noted in severe cases.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Medicine
  • Pharmacology
  • Hemodynamics

Background:

  • Arterial occlusive disease of the leg significantly impairs blood flow.
  • Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) is a vasodilator with potential therapeutic applications.
  • Understanding the localized hemodynamic effects of PGE1 is crucial for treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the hemodynamic effects of intravenous prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) in patients with leg arterial occlusive disease.
  • To assess changes in blood flow, pulse wave characteristics, and skin temperature.
  • To determine the distribution of these effects between proximal and distal leg segments.

Main Methods:

  • Intravenous administration of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) in 42 patients.
  • Hemodynamic measurements including leg blood pressure, pulse wave crest time, blood flow, velocity, and skin temperature.
  • Analysis of effects in proximal (calf) and distal (foot/toes) leg regions.

Main Results:

  • Significant increases in blood flow, pulse wave amplitude, velocity, and foot/toe skin temperature.
  • No significant changes in leg blood pressure or pulse wave crest time.
  • Significant decrease in calf skin temperature; distal effects were more pronounced.
  • Steal phenomenon observed in 18% of legs, particularly those with rest pain or gangrene.

Conclusions:

  • Intravenous PGE1 demonstrates beneficial vasodilatory effects, particularly in the distal extremities, for arterial occlusive disease.
  • The localized decrease in calf temperature and observed steal phenomenon warrant careful consideration.
  • PGE1 shows potential for improving peripheral circulation in leg arterial occlusive disease, especially distally.

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