Endovascular Management of Popliteal Artery Occlusive Disease: Long-term Outcomes of Angioplasty, Stenting and Atherectomy

Abstract

Although significant data exist for improved long-term patency with stent placement over transluminal angioplasty in peripheral arterial disease, excessive curvature of the popliteal artery during knee flexion and concomitant risk for stent kinking or fracture has limited the utilization of stents in this vessel. Atherectomy has proven to be a popular adjunct to angioplasty; however, long-term patency outcomes have not been extensively reported. Optimal endovascular management of popliteal arterial disease remains controversial and unknown.