Catheter-based methods for managing peripheral vascular disease - Which types of occlusive disease are most amenable?

Primary care physicians have an important role in identification and referr al of patients with signs and symptoms of peripheral vascular disease. Adva nces in technology have increased the effectiveness of per cutaneous cathet er-based techniques used to treat stenosis or occlusion in various anatomic sites. However, early evaluation remains an important factor in the succes s of treatment. In this symposium article, Drs Lips and Vacek review the cu rrent catheter-based techniques for managing various types of occlusive dis ease and include numerous angiographic illustrations from their case files, They also examine the factors affecting choice of treatment approach and b riefly discuss the role of thrombolytic therapy.