THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PROFUNDA FEMORAL-ARTERY

The diagnosis of peripheral vascular disease is not traditionally emph asized in many medical schools or primary care training programs. Inte rest in this field has grown as our capability to intervene in periphe ral vascular disease has increased as a result of coronary application s of catheter based therapy. Understanding the vascular anatomy of the lower extremities is only one part of treating patients with peripher al vascular disease. Recognition or clinical symptomatology and awaren ess of possible surgical options along with associated morbidity and m ortality are paramount to choosing the best treatment options for pati ents with peripheral vascular disease. The following case report illus trates these concepts and an attempt to emphasize the need for further training by cardiologists and other physicians interested in percutan eous peripheral vascular techniques.