[Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the subclavian artery].

Over a period of 12 years, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty was used to dilate 227 subclavian obliterations (216 stenoses, 11 occlusions) in 208 patients. Immediate success rate was 96%. 152 dilated arteries long-term patency are known. The average follow-up time was 32 months (1-120 months). 14 restenosis occurred. In 7 of the 14 patients redilation were performed. Complication: 3 puncture site thrombosis, 1 haematoma, 4 transient confusion occurred. In 2 patients shoulder pain developed with unknown origin, and last for a few weeks. There were no irreversible neurologic deficit. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of subclavian artery stenoses should be the procedure of choice in symptomatic patients.