Leg angioplasty, also known as peripheral angioplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed arteries in the legs, commonly due to peripheral artery disease (PAD). The success rate of this procedure can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the arterial blockage, the patient’s overall health, and the specific techniques used during the procedure.
- Success Rate:
- The technical success rate of leg angioplasty, which refers to the ability to open the blocked artery, is generally high, often over 90%.
- However, the long-term success rate, defined as the artery remaining open and the patient remaining symptom-free, can vary. It may be lower, especially in patients with more severe or extensive arterial disease.
- Factors Affecting Success Rate:
- Severity of Arterial Disease: Patients with extensive atherosclerosis or long segments of arterial blockage may have a lower success rate.
- Patient Health Factors: Factors like diabetes, smoking, and kidney disease can affect outcomes. Patients who continue smoking after the procedure, for example, have a higher rate of re-narrowing (restenosis) of the artery.
- Location of Blockage: Blockages in smaller arteries or below the knee are more challenging to treat and may have a lower success rate.
- Risk of Restenosis:
- Restenosis, or re-narrowing of the artery, is a common issue, occurring in a significant number of cases within a year after the procedure.
- Drug-eluting stents and drug-coated balloons have been developed to reduce the risk of restenosis.
- Symptom Improvement:
- Many patients experience significant improvement in symptoms like leg pain during walking (claudication) and improved quality of life.
- Complications:
- Possible complications include bleeding at the catheter insertion site, damage to the blood vessel, and, rarely, acute closure of the artery.
- Follow-up Care and Lifestyle Changes:
- Ongoing management, including medications to prevent blood clots, cholesterol management, and lifestyle changes like smoking cessation and exercise, is crucial for long-term success.
- Alternative Treatments:
- In cases where angioplasty is not successful or suitable, other treatments like bypass surgery may be considered.
Patients considering leg angioplasty should discuss with their healthcare provider to understand how their specific circumstances might affect the potential outcomes of the procedure. A comprehensive approach, including lifestyle modifications and medical management, is important for the best long-term results.