Recanalization of total arterial occlusions with the Kensey dynamic angioplasty catheter.

The Kensey dynamic angioplasty catheter is a new device for recanalization of peripheral arterial occlusions. Twelve patients with segmental occlusions who were not considered candidates for conventional bypass surgery because of cardiovascular risk factors were studied. Four of the patients were treated in the operating room. Two had excellent primary results in limb salvage situations, and recanalization of an occluded femoropopliteal bypass graft was successful in another. Bilateral iliac recanalizations in the fourth patient were locally successful but did not prevent the patient's death from advanced ischemic disease. Eight patients were treated percutaneously. Initial recanalization was successful in seven. Four had early reocclusions and required amputation below the knee. One suffered distal embolization after recanalization of a 6-cm popliteal segment and underwent above-the-knee amputation. Long-term follow-up (7-18 months) in the other three patients with successful primary recanalizations has confirmed patency of the recanalized segments.