Outcome of lower extremity revascularization for peripheral artery occlusive disease: is there a difference between men and women?

The incidence of peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAD) increases with age. Women represent a growing percentage of the elderly population who present with PAD. While speculation exists that gender affects outcome after revascularization procedures, the literature is confusing and often conflicting. This review compares outcomes by gender after open surgical and endovascular lower extremity revascularization (LER) procedures including: demographic differences, patency rates, limb salvage rates, long-term survival, perioperative complications and 30-day mortality. This review summarizes the existing data and discusses current influences on outcome after LER.