Intravascular flow prior to and following angioplasty in peripheral vessels (arteries).

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to assess mean values of velocities in peripheral arterial vessels prior to and following angioplasty in patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease. Standard values are evaluated with the guidewire positioned proximal to the lesion, inside the lesion and distal to the lesion. METHODS: Twenty-five measurements were taken prior to and following angioplasty in 22 patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease. The Doppler guidewire was inserted over a 5 French sheath and a Cobra catheter. During measurements, the catheter was totally pulled back and the sheath was placed as proximal as possible. RESULTS: Prior to angioplasty, the velocities in the arteries were 69 +/- 60 cm/second proximal to the lesion, 186 +/- 112 cm/second inside the stenoses and 47 +/- 36 cm/second distal to the lesion. The values increased to 97 +/- 105 cm/second, 89 +/- 89 cm/second and 83 +/- 72 cm/second, respectively. Proximal velocities were lower inside occlusions and increased more markedly compared to stenoses. CONCLUSION: The Doppler guidewire is a practical and valuable tool in assessing technical success after angioplasty of peripheral lesions. In successful angioplasties, no flow acceleration should be observed. Standard values were evaluated.