Follow-up evaluation of venous morphologic factors and function after thrombectomy and temporary arteriovenous fistula in thrombosis of iliofemoral vein.

Fifty-seven patients (58 post-thrombotic legs) treated with venous thrombectomy and temporary arteriovenous fistula for thrombosis of the iliofemoral vein were evaluated in a follow-up study regarding clinical, morphologic and functional aspects nine to ten months after thrombectomy. There were 33 men and 24 women, between 15 and 84 years of age (a mean of 51 years). The results of clinical examination revealed that 75 per cent of the patients had a good and 20 per cent a fair result of the treatment. No ulcers of the leg or venous claudication had developed. Venography (53 legs) demonstrated 61 per cent patency rate of the iliofemoral segment, although post-thrombotic changes were noted in 23 per cent. Venous femoral pressure measurement was normal in 82 per cent of 28 legs examined despite some proximal stenosis or occlusion. A good venous emptying with plethysmography was achieved in 29 per cent and foot volumetry showed normal peripheral venous function in 29 per cent. The results of this follow-up study, however short, reveal that venous patency can be restored to a high extent with good clinical result. Functionally, these patients may be at high risk for having sequelae develop later.