Piazza M et al. – In this study, the authors compared the outcomes of self–expanding PTFE covered stents (CSs) with bare metal stents (BMSs) in the treatment of iliac artery occlusions (IAOs). The early and midterm outcomes were found to be similar for both self–expanding CS and BMS. The midterm patency rates were higher with CSs for Trans Atlantic InterSociety Consensus (TASC) D lesions, IAOs with a total lesion length >6 cm, occlusion length >3.5 cm, and calcification involving >75% of the arterial wall circumference. The parameters can aid the operator for endovascular planning.

Methods

• Of the 128 iliac arteries stented for IAO, 61% of patients were implanted with CS and 49% of patients with BMS.

Results

• Iliac lesions were classified by limb as TASC B (19%), C (21%), and D (60%).
• The early cumulative surgical complication rate, primary patency and 30–day mortality rate were equivalent for both the stents.
• CSs showed a higher patency rate for TASC D. Also, overall patency also favored CSs in terms of IAOs >3.5 cm in length, total lesion length >6 cm and IAO with calcification >75% of the arterial wall circumference.