Endovascular management of isolated infrarenal aortic occlusive disease is safe and effective in selected patients.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the safety and efficacy of endovascular management of isolated infrarenal aortic occlusive disease within our centre.

DESIGN AND METHODS: Retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent endovascular treatment of occlusive disease that is confined to the infrarenal aorta between September 1993 and November 2004.

RESULTS: Primary aortic stenting was carried out in 16 women and five men using self-expanding (12 patients) and balloon expanding stents to treat both occlusions (six) and stenoses (15). Indications included intermittent claudication (13), critical limb ischaemia (six), and distal embolisation (three). Significant postoperative complications within 30 days were noted in three, including one death. Fifteen patients completed 1-year follow-up with primary patency in 14 and secondary patency in the remaining patient. Clinical improvement was documented in all patients.

CONCLUSION: Primary stenting for occlusive disease isolated in the infrarenal aorta is relatively safe in selected patients with encouraging early follow-up results.