[Leg embolisms: treatment via percutaneous thrombo-aspiration].

PURPOSE

Benefits of the local thrombolytic therapy in the treatment of acute peripheral arterial ischemia have been proved (13), but the place of thrombo-aspiration in this percutaneous treatment is not well defined. This study evaluates the results of thromboaspiration with or without local thrombolysis for the treatment of arterial embolism associated with a lower limb arteriopathy.

METHODS

From May 1991 to May 1992, ten arterial embolisms (below the common femoral artery) associated with a lower limb arteriopathy have been treated by thromboaspiration with or without local thrombolysis.

RESULTS

Nine immediate successes have been obtained. One failure has been operated on with success. On the third day, an occlusion of the popliteal artery occured and a femoroperoneal bypass was performed. But the occlusion of the bypass obligated to an amputation above the knee. This patient died one month later (hospital mortality 10%). During the follow-up (2 months), other procedures were patent.

CONCLUSIONS

Thromboaspiration with or without thrombolysis is efficient for the treatment of arterial embolism associated with a lower limb arteriopathy.