Purpose: In this prospective study we investigated the site, occurrence, and development of stenoses and occlusions following recanalization of superficial femoral artery occlusions.
Methods: Recanalization of an occluded femoropopliteal artery was attempted in 62 patients. Follow-up examinations included clinical examination and color-flow duplex scanning at regular intervals. Arteriography was used to determine the localization of the recurrent disease relative to the initially occluded segment.
Results: During a mean follow-up of 23 months (range 0-69 months) 14 high-grade restenoses, indicated by a peak systolic velocity ratio >> 3.0, were detected by color-flow duplex scanning. Occlusion of the treated segment occurred in 11 patients. The cumulative 3-year primary patency rate for high-grade restenoses and occlusions combined was 44% (SE 9%). By arteriographic examination the site of restenosis was localized in the distal half of the treated vessel segment in 16 of 21 cases.
Conclusion: Most restenoses and occlusions occurred during the first year and most disease developed at the previous intervention site. The site of restenosis is more frequently in the distal part of the initially treated segment, a finding that may have therapeutic implications.