Peripheral arteriosclerosis; present concepts of management.

Three hundred patients with clinical manifestations of ischemia due to peripheral arteriosclerosis were studied. An accurate demonstration of the extent of the arterial occlusive process by means of aortography was of major importance in determining therapy and prognosis. The results from thromboendarterectomy to restore the arterial lumen in cases of segmental thrombosis or stenosis greatly exceeded those obtained from other methods of therapy for peripheral arteriosclerosis. The indications for and the limitations of lumbar sympathectomy as a palliative procedure are described. Medical treatment, except for the use of specific protective measures, was of little value in altering either the symptoms or prognosis.