The brachial artery method to peripheral transluminal angioplasty.

The brachial artery method to peripheral (percutaneous) transluminal angioplasty is described. A total of 232 angioplasties were attempted using the brachial and femoral artery techniques with a success achieved in 204 cases (88%): in 167 of 176 (95%) stenoses, and in 37 of 56 (66%) occlusions. 114 attempts were made via the brachial artery method with a success achieved in 109 (96%): in 98 of 102 (96%) stenoses, and in 11 of 12 (92%) occlusions. 68% of the attempts were made in the ileofemoral system with a success achieved in 73 cases (94%): in 66 of 70 (94%) stenoses, and 7 of 8 occlusions. All of the attempted renal, subclavian, and superficial femoral artery stenoses were successfully dilated. One local brachial artery complication was encountered. The brachial artery method to peripheral transluminal angioplasty is an acceptable and complementary alternative to the transfemoral technique.