Percutaneous transluminal dilatation of the iliac artery: long-term results

One hundred fifty-four patients with stenosis of the iliac artery underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA). These patients were followed for 1-7 years. The long-term results of the PTAs were analyzed by computer, and life tables were generated for dilatations of the iliac arteries with unimpaired flow and for those with an obstruction in the outflow tract. The accumulative 7-year patency rate was 90%, which agrees with other reports. This study demonstrates that the long-term results of PTA of iliac arterial stenoses are competitive with reconstructive vascular surgery. PTA should be the treatment of choice in patients with iliac arterial stenoses.     

Transluminal angioplasty evaluated by electron microscopy

To gain more understanding about the changes that follow balloon angioplasty, an electron and light microscopic study was carried out in normal canine arteries. Thirty-five arterial segments were dilated with balloon catheters. Early changes consisted of denudation of the intima with widespread necrosis of myocytes and dehiscence of collagen fibers. After three days, myocytes had disappeared leaving empty spaces and edematous ground substance. After two weeks, reendothelization occurred and there was evidence of intimal hyperplasia persisting up to two months. Repair of the dilated arterial segments occurred by proliferation of myocytes, formation of intima, and proliferation of collagen. In two to three months, repair of the intima and media was completed. After six months, dilated segments were characterized by persistent intimal hyperplasia and increased collagen content in the media.