Catheter-directed intra-arterial thrombolysis for lower extremity arterial occlusions

Catheter-directed intra-arterial thrombolysis (CDT) is a rational treatment method in patients with acute/subacute and even some chronic occlusions of lower extremity arteries and bypass grafts having salvageable limb ischemia. Immediate vessel patency can be achieved with an acceptable complication rate in many patients, especially those with fresh thrombus or emboli. It can be also an adjuvant treatment modality for endovascular interventions for chronic occlusions. There is no standard method of CDT including thrombolytic agent dose and technique. Selection of treatment strategy should be based on individual judgment based on viability of limb, lesion characteristics, and risks of hemorrhage.