Retroperitoneal unilateral ileofemoral thromboendarterectomy.

This clinical series of 145 operative procedures is presented to demonstrate that an aggressive approach in the management of ileofemoral arterial insufficiency utilizing a retroperitoneal approach for thromboendarterectomy is useful and appropriate. Considering the overall risk factors associated with this patient population, we have demonstrated that this method is well tolerated as supported by the low morbidity and mortality figures presented. The native vascular tree has been preserved, and excellent early and long-term revascularization goals have been obtained.