Insights into endovascular revascularization in limb salvage procedures: "Antegrade-retrograde" technique in chronic total occlusion

Abstract

Significant occlusions of the peripheral arterial circulation, responsible for chronic limb ischemia (CLI), are a serious cause of morbidity, mortality, and poor quality of life. The currently available treatment options for patients with severely symptomatic CLI include bypass surgery and arterial revascularization. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty for CLI is shown to be as effective as bypass surgery at high-volume centers, and it also offers a less invasive alternative, leading to quicker patient recovery times and lower short-term costs. This case report reviews the current techniques available and discusses an "antegrade-retrograde" angioplasty approach to successfully recanalize such challenging obstructions. © 2011 MedReviews®, LLC.