Management of complications after revascularization due to peripheral arterial occlusive disease. Prophylaxis and consistent adequate therapy after timely diagnostics

Complications are a threat to successful revascularization for treatment of perpheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) and must, therefore, be either primarily prevented or effectively treated after having occurred. The aim of this article is to give a survey of possible complications after revascularization for treatment of PAOD and their management. A systematic literature review was performed in PubMed and Medline. The analysis mainly considered recent publications with a higher level of evidence. Revascularization for treatment of PAOD can basically be performed by an open surgical approach, an endovascular approach or as a combination of both methods (hybrid operation). The spectrum of possible complications varies accordingly. A differentiation can be made between bleeding, ischemic and systemic complications as well as between vascular and non-vascular complications. Optimal management of complications begins with primary prophylaxis and further includes a timely diagnosis and treatment of established complications. The best prophylaxis consists of a high quality of indications and performance of revascularization. Optimal management of complications is essential and of utmost importance for successful revascularization to treat PAOD.