The procedure is done under local anaesthetic and the majority of patients can go home the same day. [5] During the procedure the interventional radiology specialist or vascular consultant will make a small incision into the groin under ultrasound guidance. Wires and a plastic tube (catheter) are passed through it, down the leg and contrast (dye) is injected to the vessel to show the anatomy of leg arteries and extent of disease. The blockage is in the lumen of the artery. A guide wire is passed between 2 layers of the artery, in the subintimal space, near the blocked lumen. Another hollow plastic tube with a balloon at its end is then passed over this wire. The balloon is inflated, between the 2 layers, creating a new lumen, and pushing aside the blockage, allowing blood to bypass the blockage. [11] After the procedure a dye is injected into the artery to help guide the medical team and confirm that there is enough blood flow to the affected limb. [4] Outcomes of the procedure are dependent on location of the blockage as well as severity of the blockage.
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