BASIL and beyond: identifying the right candidates for endovascular and surgical revascularization.

Infrainguinal arterial bypass with autologous vein has proven effective and durable over nearly 60 years. Less invasive endovascular treatment has emerged as a formidable competitor to the vein bypass. In many, if not most cases, the choice of one modality over the other is clear. However, there are situations where the decision is not so obvious. It is in such cases that the careful consideration of all patient and anatomic factors by the experienced vascular specialist who can offer both open surgical bypass and endovascular treatment is likely to lead to better outcomes. This article and presentation will attempt to provide some guidelines that the reader may consider when making such choices.