This is the Scientific Surgery Archive, which contains all randomized clinical trials in surgery that have been identified by searching the top 50 English language medical journal issues since January 1998. Compiled by Jonothan J. Earnshaw, former Editor-in-Chief, BJS

Durability of femoropopliteal transluminal angioplasty for claudication. BJS 2000; 87: 509-509.

Published: 6th December 2002

Authors: T. O. Oshodi, M. Shackcloth, R. Ashleigh, D. Charlesworth

Background

Some 200 consecutive femoropopliteal transluminal percutaneous angioplasties (PTAs) in patients with claudication were followed up to ascertain the long‐term patency.

Method

One hundred and forty‐six patients (200 angioplasties) who underwent PTA were followed up between 1991 and 1997. Clinical symptoms, ankle: brachial pressure index (ABPI) and duplex scan assessment were recorded. Mean follow‐up was 43·2 months.

Results

The median age of patients was 66 (range 49–86) years, with a mean claudication distance of 68 (range 10–274) m. Primary patency at 1, 3 and 5 years was 72, 54 and 32 per cent respectively. Stenosis rather than occlusion, ABPI greater than 0·8 after angioplasty and immediate symptomatic improvement were associated with favourable outcome. Diabetes adversely affected patency. Twenty‐one patients (11 per cent) required bypass surgery following a failed PTA.

Conclusion

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