Abstract
Pioneered several years ago by cardiologists and interventional radiologists, laser-assisted angioplasty for the ablation of occlusive atherosclerotic lesions in the peripheral and coronary circulations is now entering the domain of the vas cular surgeon, who has the ability to progress beyond the limitations of the percutaneous approach. In the initial 38 patients undergoing 51 lower extremity laser angioplasty/ balloon dilatation procedures for peripheral vascular occlusive disease, pedal pulses were restored in 32 (63%) limbs. The tandem procedure failed in 16 (31%); however, when improvement was assessed objectively by postoperative ankle/arm index evaluation, a positive outcome was achieved in 72 % of the patients. Three (6%) patients required femoral-popliteal bypass after balloon- related arterial dissection was identified. Although laser angioplasty can successfully open occluded arteries, new in traoperative angiographic equipment compatible with laser angioplasty and a variety of incrementally sized laser probes will facilitate refinement of the tech nology and enhance its application. © 1988, Sage Publications. All rights reserved.