The practical consequences of research in arteriosclerosis.

: Despite the impressive volume of work that has been undertaken, the successful medical therapy of arteriosclerosis continues to elude us--preventive measures and surgical treatment of its complications persist as the primary modalities of treatment. While research into the fundamental pathophysiology surrounding arteriosclerosis is not complete and our understanding is plagued by the current plethora of confusing and contradictory reports, the cellular mechanisms underlying this process are gradually being clarified. As yet, this basic research has had limited impact for vascular surgical patients, who have benefited more as a result of epidemiological studies. For instance, we are more diligent in looking for occult disease, less ready to operate on obvious lesions, and more persuasive in our attempts to alter the patient's lifestyle--particularly smoking habits.