Arterial occlusion secondary to methylmethacrylate use.

We are reporting a new complication of the use of methylmethacrylate, namely occlusion of the iliac artery with embolization. We believe that the occlusion is related to trauma to the intima by the heat of polymerization created by methylmethacrylate, with resultant thrombosis. In view of the initial failure of embolectomy alone, we suggest direct attack on the involved artery with prosthetic replacement, and management of the distal embolus by embolectomy with Fogarty catheters.