Retrograde iliac endarterectomy - modified technique combining conventional surgical and interventional procedures

Background . Retrograde ring-stripper endarterectomy of iliac arteries through an inguinal approach modified by combining interventional procedures. Material and methods. 52 iliac arteries underwent modified retrograde ring-stripper endarterectomy. Passage of the lesions with a guide wire permits endarterectomy over the wire as a central splint under fluoroscopic control. Residual lesions are corrected by balloon or stent angioplasty. Results. Conversion to a conventional operation was required in 8 limbs. Initial technical success was achieved in 44 limbs. Cumulative secondary patience was 95.8% at 24 months (S.E. 4.7%). Conclusion. Modified ring-stripper endarterectomy with angioplasty is a safe and effective procedure. Long-term results are required.