South West Radiologists Association

s of Papers RESULTS AND COMPLICATIONS OF PERCUTANEOUS TRANSLUMINAL ANGIOPLASTY W. D. Jeans, Bristol The technique of dilatation of narrowed and occluded segments of artery by an intra-arterial catheter having a distensible balloon in its distal end was first described in 1974 by A. Gruntzig. Its use has gradually increased and is now widely accepted. One report (Motorjeme et al., 1980) suggests that some 70% of patients with symptoms of arterial insufficiency may be suitable for dilatation either alone or in conjunction with surgery. The results in the first 52 patients in whom the technique was attempted in Bristol confirmed the reported indications and complications. 52 patients were catheterised and in 12 the lesion could not be passed or was not dilated. 70% of those dilated had a successful and persisting response to the technique. Success is more likely if there is no calcification present; if there is a stenosis or occlusion less than 12cm. in length and if the lesion is in the iliac or superficial femoral artery. Complications include haematoma in the groin (worse because patients are heparinised), embolism and dissection of the vessel being dilated. These complications make it essential for the procedure to be done in association with vascular