Improvement of microcirculation after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in the lower limb with Prostaglandin E1

ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to investigate prospectively the microcirculation after angioplasty and its improvement with additional Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) therapy assessed by transcutaneous pressure of oxygen.Patients and methods45 patients with intermittent claudication eligible for angioplasty were enrolled in a prospective randomised controlled clinical trial. Patients received either intra-arterial bolus of 40 μg PGE1 in addition to angioplasty or a 40 μg PGE1 intravenous infusion. Control group received no trial medication. Additional 15 patients undergoing intra-arterial angiography were also investigated. tcpO2 values were recorded distal to the PTA region before, during the intervention, 24 h, 2 and 4 weeks after intervention. Clinical endpoint was the change of tcpO2 values 4 weeks after intervention.ResultsDuring the 4 week follow-up tcpO2 values decreased in patients treated with angioplasty. At the same time tcpO2 increased significantly in those patients additionally treated with intra-arterial PGE1 bolus injection as well as with intravenous PGE1 infusion.ConclusionsImpaired microcirculation after angioplasty can be improved with additional intravenous as well as intra-arterial PGE1 administration.