CLINICAL RESULTS OF THROMBOENDARTERECTOMY FOR PERIPHERAL ATHEROSCLEROTIC OCCLUSIVE DISEASE.

Thromboendarterectory of atherosclerotic vessels may restore luminal flow by removal of the occluding thrombus and thickened, ulcerated intima. This operation has been performed on 43 occasions for aortoiliac and femoropopliteal occlusive lesions with significant distal ischemia. The early and late results have been entirely satisfactory, confirming the worth and durability of the procedure, particularly for limb salvage. The widespread and progressive character of the atherosclerotic process, however, may compromise the operative and late results by involvement of vital arteries or distal small vessels. Complete angiographic assessment from the abdominal aorta to beyond the popliteal bifurcation is essential in the proper selection of patients. Thrombo-endarterectomy is recommended for the management of segmental occlusive lesions primarily, but gratifying results may be obtained in extensively diseased arteries unsuitable for bypass grafting.