Lower limb revascularization and free flap transfer for major ischemic tissue loss

World J Surg. 2000 Dec;24(12):1531-6. doi: 10.1007/s002680010273.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the value of lower limb revascularization and free flap transfer (LLR-FFT) in the management of critical leg ischemia and major tissue loss. A total of 29 consecutive patients with critically ischemic leg and major tissue loss underwent 24 simultaneous and 6 staged LLR-FFT procedures. The main outcome measures were bypass graft patency, free flap viability, leg salvage, patients alive with salvaged leg, and survival. At the 2-year follow-up, the bypass graft patency rate was 85%, secondary free flap viability rate was 82%, and 82% of patients achieved leg salvage and were ambulant. If the success was defined as patients being alive with a salvaged leg, the corresponding rate was 80%. Three patients achieved long-term primary patency and leg salvage despite free flap failure, which occurred during the 30-day postoperative period. Lower extremity revascularization plus free flap coverage of large ischemic lesions is valuable in achieving long-term leg salvage. Because revascularization and conventional management of major tissue loss alone can be effective in the management of a small number of cases, staged LLR-FFT is indicated, when appropriate, for better selection of patients undergoing such an aggressive and demanding treatment.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Female
  • Gangrene / complications
  • Gangrene / surgery
  • Humans
  • Ischemia / etiology
  • Ischemia / surgery*
  • Leg / blood supply*
  • Leg / surgery
  • Leg Ulcer / complications
  • Leg Ulcer / surgery
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Proportional Hazards Models
  • Surgical Flaps*
  • Survival Analysis
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vascular Patency