Recanalization of peripheral arteries by interventional cardiologists: Rationale and results

The coexistence of peripheral artery disease (PAD) and multilevel atherosclerosis increases death and stroke rates in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). These patients are often treated conservatively without revascularisation of inferior limbs. We included 66 consecutive patients with complex CAD diagnosed by coronary angiography. All patients underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTEACS) before or simultaneously with peripheral angioplasty (PTA). Major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) during long-term follow-up were assessed. There were 3 deaths, one myocardial infarction, two urgent PCIs, two ischaemic strokes and two TIAs, 8 repeated PTAs in previously treated peripheral lesions, 7 elective PTAs of other vessels after the index procedure in different hospitalisations and no amputation. Patients with concomitant CAD and PAD could safely undergo percutaneous cardiovascular interventions with promising long-term follow-up. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.