Factors affecting the results of surgery for chronic critical leg ischemia--a nationwide survey. Finnvasc Study Group.

PURPOSE

To assess the factors affecting immediate outcome of surgery for chronic critical leg ischemia, especially the influence of surgeon's caseload and hospital volume.

METHODS

The data of Finnvasc registry were retrospectively analyzed. A total of 11,747 surgical vascular reconstructions included 1,761 operations for chronic critical leg ischemia during 1991 to 1994.

RESULTS

The 30-day postoperative leg amputation rate was 7.5% and the mortality rate 4.7%. Diabetes, previous vascular surgery or amputation, preoperative ulcer or gangrene, a surgeon's annual caseload fewer than 10 operations, and hospital volume fewer than 20 operations for chronic critical leg ischemia adversely affected amputation rates. The presence of coronary artery disease and renal dysfunction increased postoperative mortality rates. Both amputation rates and postoperative mortality rates were affected by the type of procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

A surgeon's caseload and hospital volume affect amputation rate, but not mortality rate, in patients operated for chronic critical leg ischemia.