Midterm results of endovascular treatment of iliac artery lesions: analysis of 59 cases

Background: Endovascular treatment of peripheral arterial occlusive disease has become increasingly frequent in the past few years. Because it is a less invasive procedure, lower morbidity and mortality rates are associated with this form of treatment. Objectives: To describe the endovascular procedures performed in iliac arteries for the treatment of peripheral arterial occlusive disease. Methods: This retrospective study assesses 59 cases of iliac artery angioplasty performed according to a specific protocol from January 2004 to February 2010. Results: Mean age of patients was 62 years (minimum: 42, maximum: 89). Thirty seven were male (62.72%) and 22 female (37.28%). The main indications for treatment were moderate to severe intermittent claudication in 30 cases (50.84%) and rest pain or trophic lesions (critical ischemia) in 29 cases (49.15%). Postoperative follow-up included ankle-brachial index measurements and a duplex ultrasound at 30 days, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, and every 6 months thereafter. Minimum follow-up time was 3 months, and maximum, 72 months (6 years), with primary and secondary patency rates of 91.37 and 94.82%, respectively. Conclusions: The results of this case series, combined with literature review results, allow to conclude that the endovascular approach is an effective and safe option to treat peripheral arterial occlusive disease in iliac arteries.