[Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the subclavian artery]

In 1981, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) of the subclavian artery was performed in 10 patients. 8 stenotic lesions were localized in the first segment and two in the third segment respectively. Dilatation was performed with the Grüntzig balloon-catheter ranging from 4 to 7 French. PTA was successful in 9 of the 10 cases. Success of dilatation was documented by recording blood pressure, normalization in the pre- and poststenotic segment and by clinical results. Success of PTA depends on exact angiographic studies, adequate indication and subsequent anticoagulation treatment. Early results after PTA are excellent. PTA of stenotic subclavian arteries has proved an alternative to surgical management.