Urokinase infusion of chronically occluded femoropopliteal gortex™ bypass grafts via the popliteal approach

Abstract

Thrombolysis of two occluded above-knee femoropopliteal Gortex bypass grafts utilizing the popliteal approach for catheter placement was successfully performed without complication. In both cases, the proximal anastomoses of the graft could not be identified. A percutaneous popliteal approach was used for catheter placement and delivery of urokinase. Angioplasty was performed on the unveiled stenoses that, presumptively, led to graft closure. Selective thrombolysis via catheter placed from popliteal approach is a new technique for recanalization of occluded femoropopliteal bypass grafts and warrants further investigation.