Below-the-Ankle Antegrade Teleferic Technique: New Approach for Below-the-Ankle Revascularization in Challenging Cases of Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a novel bailout technique to approach below-the-ankle (BTA) chronic total occlusions or plantar-arch severe disease where the balloon/catheter is unable to follow the crossing guidewire and no other described recanalization approach is feasible. Technique: When facing a complex BTA revascularization, if the guidewire crosses but the balloon cannot progress due to a lack of pushability, an antegrade puncture of the infrapopliteal vessel where the tip of the guidewire lays is performed. The guidewire is then carefully navigated through this distal BTA vessel into the needle to achieve its rendezvous and externalization. A low-profile balloon is inserted through the femoral access and advanced till the non-crossable point of the BTA vessels. A torque device is then attached to the proximal hub of the balloon, and the through-and-through guidewire is subsequently pulled from the new distal access, allowing the balloon to be dragged across the lesion together with the wire. Conclusion: The below-the-ankle antegrade teleferic (BAT) technique may be considered for highly complex BTA revascularization procedures where the wire crosses the lesion, but no other device can be tracked over it. Clinical Impact The clinical impact of this article lies in the description of a bailout technique for BTA revascularization where the guidewire crosses, but no device can be advanced. This technique can be helpful in scenarios where failure to achieve success could result in limb loss. The BAT technique provides a solution in extremely challenging cases, enhancing technical success, improving outcomes and potentially preserving the limbs of patients who would otherwise face amputation, if not revascularized. The video shows the BAT technique performed with a support catheter under fluoroscopy: antegrate puncture of the DP, advancement of the support catheter over the wire, rendezvous of the guidewire in the catheter and subsequent externalization of the wire.