Percutaneous fenestration of a type I aortic dissection for relief of lower extremity ischemia.

A 36-year-old patient underwent successful percutaneous fenestration of a type I aortic dissection which had caused occlusion of the right common iliac artery and ischemia of the right lower extremity. The patient is currently (6 months post-fenestration) ambulating without any signs of vascular compromise. The technique may be useful in patients who are at high risk for surgical procedures.