A comparison of operative approaches and parameters predictive of success in multilevel arterial occlusive disease

BACKGROUND: The correction of abnormal inflow alone in patients with multilevel arterial occlusive disease (MLAOD) may be inadequate to relieve limb-threatening ischemia. This study was undertaken to compare operative approaches and attempt to define preoperative parameters predictive of limb salvage in patients with MLAOD. STUDY DESIGN: The outcome after revascularization for 194 patients with limb-threatening ischemia MLAOD was assessed retrospectively. One hundred fifty-one patients initially underwent an inflow operation alone. Based on whether or not these patients required an outflow operation within one year, they were divided into two groups: group 1, no outflow operation (121 patients, 121 limbs), and group 2, outflow operation required for continued ischemic symptoms (30 patients, 30 limbs). A separate group of forty-three patients (43 limbs) underwent synchronous inflow-outflow operations, or multilevel revascularization, as their initial operative procedure (group 3). RESULTS: Perioperative complications and mortality rates did not differ between groups. Limb salvage rates were similar for groups 1 and 3, whereas in group 2, limb salvage rates were significantly reduced (p = 0.0184). Long-term limb salvage after an isolated inflow procedure was associated with lack of prior vascular reconstructions (p = 0.0002), the absence of tissue loss (p = 0.0019), and an infrageniculate angiographic runoff score of less than 6 (p = 0.054). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with limb-threatening MLAOD, synchronous inflow-outflow operations can be performed with resultant morbidity and mortality rates comparable with inflow alone. After an inflow operation, the approach of "expectant management" may ultimately compromise limb salvage if a subsequent outflow operation is required.