[Chronic circulatory disorders].

For all parts of the body the clinical picture of obstructive vascular disease is decisive. Invasive diagnostic techniques are only advisable if surgical treatment is considered. Angiography reveals only the site of the obstruction and the run-off-situation in operable cases. In cerebral and in coronary surgery operations can only be recommended if the tissue behind the obstruction is still alive; whether necrotic brain nor dead myocardium can be reanimated by revascularisation. Cerebral and coronary vascular surgery have therefore more prophylactic intentions. In peripheral arterial obstructions an operation should save the leg but not treat intermittent claudication.