[Endarterectomy of the superficial femoral artery using an oscillating loop]

A short series of half closed endarterectomies of superficial femoral artery with oscillating ringstripper is presented. The technique used is described, and major problems are discussed. Results are published and confrontated with the clinical events. Three criteria are withheld for indication of this procedure: the superficial femoral artery has to be completely occluded and not calcifiated; the popliteal artery has to be angiographically normal; two out of three arteries below knee have to be permeable. The authors advocate oral anticoagulation for a relatively long postoperative period.