Angioplasty versus stenting for subclavian artery stenosis.

BACKGROUND: There is insufficient evidence to guide stent usage following angioplasty in subclavian artery stenosis.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this review was to determine whether stenting is more effective than angioplasty alone for stenosis of the subclavian artery.

SEARCH STRATEGY: The Cochrane Peripheral Vascular Diseases Group searched their Specialised Register (last searched August 2011) and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library 2011, Issue 3). In addition, the authors searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE and LILACS databases, and handsearched relevant journals. Informal enquiries were made with the major stent device manufacturers to obtain information on unpublished data and any ongoing trials. There was no restriction on language.

SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomized controlled trials of endovascular treatment of subclavian artery lesions comparing angioplasty alone and stent implantation.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two authors independently evaluated studies to assess eligibility. Discrepancies were resolved by discussion. If there was no agreement, the third author was asked to assess the study for inclusion.

MAIN RESULTS: To date we have not identified any completed or ongoing randomized controlled trials comparing percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting for subclavian artery stenosis.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: There is currently insufficient evidence to determine whether stenting is more effective than angioplasty alone for stenosis of the subclavian artery.