French Guidelines for the Management of Ambulatory Endovascular Procedures for Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease

Background: Ambulatory hospitalization for endovascular repair of lower extremity peripheral arterial disease (PAD) could be a real opportunity to respond to the burden of PAD, to reduce costs, and to improve patients' empowerment. The French Society of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery (SCVE) established guidelines to facilitate the development of ambulatory hospitalization in France. Methods: In 2017, we used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and MEDLINE database to conduct a systematic review of available literature. A total of 448 relevant articles were found. Twelve articles, all published after the year 2000, were included and reviewed by two independent investigators. The SCVE mandated a scientific committee to collectively establish these guidelines. Results: Eligibility for ambulatory management shall be based on the assessment of the triad: (1) patient, (2) procedure, and (3) structure. Comprehensive information and a detailed procedural pathway should be provided for the patient. No age limit is recommended. American Society of Anesthesiologists I, II, and III stable patients are eligible for ambulatory intervention. Specific comorbidities such as severe obesity, sleep apnea, and/or chronic kidney failure should be assessed preoperatively. Critical limb ischemia and complex lesions have not been considered as exclusion criteria. Antiplatelet drug use (aspirin and/or clopidogrel) has not been considered as a contraindication. Femoral ultrasound-guided puncture is recommended. Manual compression or closure devices have been recommended for 7F sheath or less. A minimum of 4 hours of monitoring after percutaneous femoral access is required before discharge. Conclusions: The SCVE guidelines aim to frame the practice of ambulatory endovascular procedures for lower extremity peripheral artery disease and to give vascular interventionalists help in their routine practice.