Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in peripheral vascular disease: a review.

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is a relatively new technique employed in the treatment of stenoses or occlusions of peripheral arteries. While the longterm success rates have yet to be determined, short-term results have been excellent. The procedure has greatest value in the dilatation of localized lesions, avoiding surgery and its attendant risks. However, PTA and surgery are complementary, not competing, modes of therapy. PTA complements the traditional therapy of peripheral vascular disease, which remains reconstructive surgery.