Abstract des Autors

Stenosis of the arteria iliaca externa is a rare pathology, occurring almost exclusively in elite cyclists. It is assumed that kinking of this artery during repetitive hip flexion in the typical cycling position provokes this condition. The increase of the cardiac output and systolic blood pressure during intensive cycling could also play a role. Repair mechanism may lead to fibrotic alterations of the injured artery. The symptoms are comparable to those of exercise ischaemia, the patient complaining of a fatigued, dull sensation in the leg, especially when performing at high intensities. Change in ankle-arm blood pressure ratio after a maximal bicycle exercise test in the typical cycling position is indicative of this pathologic state. Pulse-volume registration of the arteries of the lower extremities is the most important diagnostic tool. Diagnostic imaging methods seem of minor importance. Until now surgical intervention has been the only effective therapy, although the longterm results as well as possible complications have yet to be observed. Verf.-Referat