Advantages of PTA, as compared with surgical revascularization, include which of the following?

A. Decreased initial cost, shorter convalescence, and earlier return to full activity.

D. Repeat PTA is well-tolerated, morbidity is equivalent to that for the initial procedure, and success rates are comparable to those expected with the initial procedure.

DISCUSSION: The primary advantages of PTA over surgical revascularization are the lower initial cost of the procedure, decreased hospital stay, earlier return to full activity, lower morbidity, and the ability to repeat the procedure without markedly increasing patient morbidity or compromising clinical results. The procedure can be performed in patients who would have a high operative risk related to coexisting medical conditions; however, angioplasty is not applicable to the majority of patients with vascular occlusive disease because of the presence of long stenoses, occlusion, or multiple lesions in the vascular system. Restenosis and progression of disease in the vascular system also limit the long-term results of PTA and are the cause of a greater need for subsequent procedures.