This paper uses data from the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI) database to compare outcomes in patients undergoing a below the knee procedure to restore blood flow to the foot. There is considerable debate regarding the best initial approach - open bypass surgery or endovascular surgery. Many physicians treating this challenging patient population have switched to an endovascular first approach. This paper adds to the body of literature supporting this approach.
Patients with foot ulceration, and especially those with diabetes, are at an increased risk of amputation.
Antegrade superficial femoral artery access is safe and offers significant advantages or traditional common femoral artery access.
Increasing evidence supports an endovascular first approach to patients with critical limb ischemia.