Recanalization using a low speed rotational device (ROTACS) in total occlusions of the femoropopliteal artery.

A low speed rotational catheter system (ROTACS) was used to recanalize total occlusions of the femoropopliteal artery in two patient groups. In Group A, previous attempts to recanalize the occlusions using standard guidewires and catheters had failed. Group B had undergone no previous attempts at recanalization. The ROTACS was successful in recanalizing 85% and 77% of occlusions in Group A and Group B, respectively. All these patients subsequently underwent technically successful balloon dilatation. One month follow-up revealed a high rate of reocclusion (45%) in Group A but no reocclusions in Group B. Comparison of the two groups therefore does not suggest that the ROTACS device is responsible for early reocclusions. We conclude that the ROTACS has a role in recanalizing total femoropopliteal artery occlusions in the small group of patients in whom conventional recanalization attempts have failed.