Percutaneous transluminal recanalization of complete iliac artery occlusions.

Percutaneous transluminal recanalization of ten complete iliac artery occlusions were attempted using the Grüntzig balloon catheter. The procedure was successful in eight of the ten occlusions, including all seven in which only one of the common or external iliac arteries was obstructed. Follow-up for periods of three to 13 months (average, eight months) showed continued patency in all cases. Although the long-term results remain to be determined, our preliminary results suggest that transluminal recanalization of complete obstruction of the iliac arteries is an alternative to surgery.