[Treating chronic occlusive arterial disease].

The basis for the treatment of chronic occlusive arterial disease, in whatever stage, is the management of the cardiovascular risk factors as a secondary preventive measure. In the absence of contraindications, every symptomatic POAD patient should be given an antiplatelet agent. In stage I disease, prevention of progression is the overriding aim. In stage II, risk factor management and an antiplatelet agent are indicated. In addition to a walking exercise program, the reconstruction of occluded vessels may be indicated. The decision to apply interventional treatment or vascular surgery in stage II and IV disease; must be based on the morphology of the vascular lesion and concomitant diseases. If revascularization is not possible, treatment with PGE1 is recommended. As a life-saving measure when all else has failed, an amputation must be done.