Global revascularization: the role of the cardiologist.

There are compelling reasons for cardiologists to undertake a more global approach to patients with peripheral vascular diseases: atherosclerosis is a 'systemic' disease frequently causing both coronary and peripheral vascular problems in the same patient; coronary artery disease is the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with peripheral vascular disease; and peripheral vascular disease negatively impacts the management of angina pectoris and congestive heart failure. There are four major areas of special interest to the cardiologist: (1) iliac arteries (vascular access), (2) renal arteries (hypertension and volume overload), (3) subclavian arteries (coronary steal with a left internal mammary artery [LIMA] graft), and (4) carotid arteries (stroke). Technical skills necessary to perform coronary angioplasty are transferable to the peripheral vasculature. However, an understanding of the natural history of peripheral disease, patient and lesion selection criteria, and knowledge of other treatment alternatives are essential to performing these procedures safely and effectively. Appropriate preparation and training, and a team approach, including an experienced vascular surgeon, are both desirable and necessary before interventional cardiologists who are inexperienced in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease attempt percutaneous peripheral angioplasty. There are inherent advantages for patients when the cardiologist performing the procedure is also a clinician. Judgments regarding the indications, timing, and risk/benefit ratio of procedures are enhanced by a long-term relationship between physician and patient. Finally, in view of the increased incidence of coronary artery disease in patients with atherosclerotic peripheral vascular disease, the participation of a cardiologist in their care seems appropriate.