Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty improves glucose control and quality of life in patients with critical limb ischemia

V.S. Tolva, R. Casana, L. Lonati*, C. Invitti**, G.B. Bertoni, P.G. Bianchi, L.V. Cireni, G. Parati*

Unit of Vascular Surgery, Istituto Auxologico Italiano I.R.C.C.S. Milan, Italy. vatolva@yahoo.it

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• Angiology

AIM: To evaluate the benefit of endovascular peripheral revascularization on glucose control in patients with chronic limb ischemia.

METHODS AND RESULTS: Over a 12 month period, 61 patients (41 male, range 49-88 years of age) presenting with critical limb ischemia (CLI) were treated according to the Trans Atlantic Inter Society Consensus (TASC II) guidelines. After discharge, all patients were asked to measure their glucose level three times daily, and glycated hemoglobin was checked monthly up to 12 months, as well as to fill a questionnaire to assess their Quality of Life (QoL). The revascularization procedure was successful in 90% of cases. Glycemic control and glycated hemoglobin in 22 diabetic patients subgroup were significantly improved after the treatment and remained stable over the follow-up period. There was a significant improvement in QoL that increased steadily from the operation and to reach a plateau after six months.

CONCLUSIONS: Peripheral percutaneous angioplasty in subjects with CLI significantly improves glycemic control and ameliorates QoL. Revascularization positively effects also long-term diabetes control as well as QoL.

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