Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty of Supra-aortic Vessels

Brachiocephalic PTA can achieve excellent immediate and long-term results in proximal stenoses. Subclavian occlusions do not respond well to PTA, and those successfully recanalized have a high restenosis rate (50%). PTA of the arch vessel branches, particularly the vertebral artery, should be attempted only by experienced interventionists. Atherosclerotic lesions in the internal carotid arteries are best treated with endarterectomy at present, but fibromuscular dysplasia in the carotid arteries is an appropriate indication for PTA therapy.