Additional functional outcomes after endovascular treatment for intermittent claudication

BackgroundEndovascular treatment (EVT) for intermittent claudication (IC) is performed in selected patients where conservative treatment and training fail. Treatment outcomes reported in vascular registries (survival, limb-survival, and re-intervention rate) are inadequate for low-risk patients with IC. Additional measurements of blood flow reduction and functional impairment clarify the indication for treatment and facilitate outcome evaluation.PurposeTo analyze the additional outcome information on peripheral arterial pressures and walking capacity obtained from a local registry of EVT.Material and MethodsPatients with IC treated with endovascular technique (angioplasty or stent) were prospectively entered into a local registry in addition to the national registry (NORKAR), with information on arterial pressures (ankle brachial index [ABI]) and treadmill performance (maximum walking distance [MWD]).ResultsA total of 242 consecutive patients (41% women; median age, 70 years) receiving the first treatment...