Transluminal recanalization of occluded iliac arteries: a surgical experience

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of transluminal techniques in an unselected group of patients and to assess long-term outcome in successful procedures. All patients in whom iliac artery recanalization was attempted were included in this study. Patients with an occluded prosthesis or recent embolism were excluded. A total of 37 patients were studied. Assessment of the success or failure of the procedure was based on the results of control arteriography. Recanalization was deemed successful in 31 patients. This study demonstrates that transluminal recanalization of occluded iliac arteries by a surgeon is indeed feasible. Primary patency was 66% at 24 months. The potential risk, however, is long-term restenosis. Thus follow-up examination every 6 months is recommended including pressure index measurements after exercise and color Doppler ultrasonography of the recanalized zone.