Transpopliteal access

Abstract

The transpopliteal approach is a technique known for many years, and it is mainly used for recanalization of total occlusions of the superficial femoral artery (SFA) from retrograde if guidewire passage from antegrade failed. Several publications have demonstrated a high success rate and safety of this technique. During the intervention, the patient has to be brought into a prone position, which is time-consuming and uncomfortable; this necessity of repositioning is felt to be the major drawback of this technique. Because of this disadvantage and due to the advent of reentry devices to aid antegrade SFA recanalization attempts, the popliteal approach has lost popularity over the last years. However, because reentry devices are sometimes not applicable or can fail, and are costly, it is worthwhile to be capable to perform this technique, if needed. Furthermore, recently, the technique has been refined, making it more attractive.