Profundoplasty: expectations and ominous signs.

Computer analysis of angiographic data on 50 limbs in which profundoplasty was performed is reviewed. Patients with profundus stenosis and graftable findings on arteriogrpahy or with an open popliteal artery had favorable results. Four ominous signs are described: open profundus inflow, competing superficial femoral, poor thigh collateral and poor calf visualization. In the presence of one ominous sign, a success rate of 50% can be expected. The presence of two ominous signs is a contraindication for profundoplasty.