Morphologic structure of the pedal arch and its relationship to patency of crural vascular reconstruction

Pedal arch integrity can be determined morphologically and functionally. The former is accessible by contrast studies and intraoperative catheterization, the latter, by flow studies and observation of graft patency. The roengten image of an intact pedal arch corresponds to the anatomic plantar arch. Sixty-four arch studies obtained by adequate intraoperative arteriography were categorized as intact, deficient or inadequate or absent. Patency of crural reconstructions was obtained in 18 of 24 patients with intact arches as compared with 15 of 32, p<0.06, when the arch was deficient. Crural reconstruction in the face of an inadequate or absent arch resulted in predictable graft closure. Qualitative factors, that is, size, calcium and stenotic lesions, are integrally related to over-all graft performance even with intact arches. The deficient arch for tibial and peroneal reconstruction continues as a challenge to the vascular surgeon.