Long-term results of femoropopliteal bypass with stabilized human umbilical vein.

BACKGROUND

Stabilized human umbilical vein (SHUV) is one of several graft materials that may be used when autogenous saphenous vein is absent or inadequate, or when a shortened anesthesia time is deemed necessary.

METHODS

Two hundred eleven consecutive femoropopliteal bypasses were used in 171 patients since 1977. Follow-up has been conducted at regular intervals since operation, and the results scrutinized according to operative indication, diabetic status, and the number of runoff vessels.

RESULTS

Life-table cumulative rates were 70 +/- 3%, 45 +/- 4%, and 26 +/- 5% at 1, 5, and 10 years, respectively. Patency rates for bypasses performed for claudication were superior to those performed for limb-salvage but achieved statistical significance at 1 and 3 years only. Early patency rates for nondiabetic patients were superior to those in patients with diabetes, but did not achieve statistical significance. The incidence of infection was 3%, and the incidence of aneurysm formation was 3.3%.

CONCLUSION

SHUV is an acceptable alternative for femoropopliteal bypass when autogenous saphenous vein is inadequate or unavailable.