[Intra-arterial infusion treatment with prostaglandin E1 in patients with intermittent claudication].

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study 50 patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease stage IIb were given daily or intra-arterial infusion of either 1 ampoule of Prostavasin (20 micrograms PGE 1) or 1 ampoule of placebo (646.7 micrograms alpha-cyclodextrin), each dissolved in 50 ml saline, over 60-120 min. Weekends excepted, the therapy was continued for three weeks. Under PGE 1 therapy the maximum ergometric walking distance increased by 146% (mean: from 109 m to 268 m), as opposed to 40% in the placebo group (mean: from 101.5 m to 142 m). Furthermore, significant improvements were seen with regard to painfree walking capacity (PGE 1: + 170%; placebo: + 49%). Free maximum and pain-free walking distances were increased as well (PGE 1: + 131% and 48%; placebo: + 26% and 27%). Haemorrheological parameters, e.g. plasma and whole blood viscosity, haematocrit and erythrocyte aggregation decreased (p less than 0.01) after PGE 1, whereas a significant increase (p less than 0.01) in acral digital temperature, blood flow and ultrasonic Doppler values was seen. No side-effects were observed.