Researchers at University of Pisa ( Italy ) have evaluated the effectiveness of intravenous Iloprost ( IVI ) in outpatients with thromboangiitis obliterans ( TAO ) and lower limb noninvasive transcutaneous monitoring ( TCM ) at follow-up.

Ten consecutive patients with thromboangiitis obliterans underwent intravenous Iloprost therapy. Transcutaneous oxygen ( TcPo 2 ) and carbon dioxide ( TcPco 2 ) determination and laser Doppler flowmetry ( LDF ) were performed before and after intravenous Iloprost at 3, 6, and 12 months of follow-up.

Clinical response was positive in 7 patients, whereas 3 non-responders underwent a second intravenous Iloprost cycle with 1 showing a late positive clinical response.

After 12 months of follow-up, all patients were alive without amputations.

Supine and dependent TcP2 levels significantly improved ( P less than 0.005 ).

Hallux laser Doppler flowmetry values showed significant change with the maximal hyperemic test at 44°C ( P less than 0.005 ).

Forefoot maximal hyperemic test at 44°C LDF ( P less than 0.005 ) and improved venous arterial reflex ( P less than 0.05 ) showed statistically significant time evolution.

The study has demonstrated some degree of intravenous Iloprost effectiveness in patients with thromboangiitis obliterans. ( Xagena )

Melillo E et al, Angiology 2014; Epub ahead of print

XagenaMedicine2014