Analysis of Peripheral Gas Endarterectomy in 127 Patients

DURING the period from August 1965 through January 1968, one hundred and twenty seven patients on the combined vascular surgical services of the State University were subjected to peripheral gas endarterectomy. Of these, there were 83 femoralpopliteal reconstructions, 21 bilateral aortofemoral reconstructions, and 23 carotid artery reconstructions. The procedure has been shown technically feasible and advantageous in each of these areas. We have found that the technique offers results equivalent to those available in the hands of other groups who have long practiced endarterectomy as their primary method of vascular reconstruction. HISTORY In 1961, the vascular surgical services at Downstate Medical Center cared for approximately 14 patients with aortic dissection. Though most of these patients died, a few survived, either because of formal reentry procedures or as a result of related conservative management. During this same period, it was suggested by one of us that a hydraulic ram, equivalent to