Efficacy and one-year outcomes of Luminor® paclitaxel-coated drug-eluting balloon in the treatment of popliteal artery atherosclerosis lesions

PURPOSE

Reporting outcomes with a new generation paclitaxel eluting balloon (Luminor®; iVascular, Vascular, S.L.U., Barcelona, Spain) in the popliteal district. Endovascular treatment of popliteal artery atherosclerotic disease is still debated without definitive evidences.

METHODS

From January to June 2019, patients' data presenting popliteal artery atherosclerotic diseases and treated with the Luminor® (iVascular) drug eluting balloon (DEB) were prospectively collected. Critical limb ischemia (CLI) or severe claudication associated with popliteal artery stenosis >50% were the inclusion criteria. Measured outcomes were technical success, early and late results; including mortality, morbidity, symptoms recurrence, amputation, ankle-brachial index (ABI), survival, primary patency, secondary patency, freedom from restenosis. Median follow-up was 22.43 ± 4 (mean:21.58; IQR:20-24) months.

RESULTS

Of the 33 included patients, 28 (85%) were diagnosed with CLI, with a mean preoperative run-off score of 5.39 (r:0-10; SD:3) and a chronic popliteal occlusion in 21 (64%). Technical success was achieved in all cases. Perioperative mortality was observed in 1 (3%) patient and perioperative complications in 2 (6%). During the follow-up were reported 2 symptoms recurrence; a significant ABI increase (0.57; IQR:0.41-0.47 vs. 0.69; IQR:0.50-0.67; P < 0.01); 1 (3%) major and 2 (6%) minor amputations. Estimated 24 months survival, primary patency, secondary patency, and freedom from restenosis were 97%, 96.9%, 100%, and 93.8% respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In this prospective study, the use of the Luminor® (iVascular) was safe and effective in addressing atherosclerotic popliteal artery lesions. Larger studies with longer term-outcomes are required to assess the durability of this device in the popliteal artery.

Association between Physical Activity and Mortality in Patients with Claudication

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine the association between light-intensity physical activity and the incidence of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) limited by claudication followed for up to 18.7 yr.

METHODS

A total of 528 patients with PAD and claudication were screened in Baltimore between 1994 and 2002, and 386 were deemed eligible for the study. At baseline, patients were classified into three physical activity groups: 1) physically sedentary, 2) light intensity, and 3) moderate to vigorous intensity based on a questionnaire. All-cause and cardiovascular mortality of patients through December 2014 was determined using the National Death Index and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the U.S. Department of Defense Suicide Data Repository.

RESULTS

Median survival time was 9.9 yr (interquartile range, 4.9-15.7 yr; range, 0.38-18.7 yr). During follow-up, 257 patients (66.6%) died, consisting of 40/48 (83.3%) from the sedentary group, 135/210 (64.3%) from the light-intensity group, and 82/128 (64.0%) from the moderate- to vigorous-intensity group. For all-cause mortality, light-intensity activity status (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.523, P = 0.0007) and moderate- to vigorous-intensity status (HR = 0.425, P < 0.0001) were significant predictors. During follow-up, 125 patients died because of cardiovascular causes (32.4%), in which light-intensity activity status (HR = 0.511, P = 0.0113) and moderate- to vigorous-intensity activity status (HR = 0.341, P = 0.0003) were significant predictors.

CONCLUSIONS

Light-intensity physical activity is associated with nearly 50% lower risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in high-risk patients with PAD and claudication. Furthermore, moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity performed regularly is associated with 58% and 66% lower risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, respectively. The survival benefits associated with light-intensity physical activity make it a compelling behavioral intervention that extends beyond improving ambulation.

Femoral-popliteal peripheral artery disease: From symptom presentation to management and treatment controversies

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common condition with increasing prevalence domestically and worldwide. Patients with PAD have a poor prognosis, as PAD is associated with high rates of myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, and cardiovascular disease death. The primary symptom of PAD, claudication, significantly reduces quality of life and functional status and is associated with depression. In addition to several advances in medications for PAD over the last decade, endovascular device therapy has seen a significant breakthrough in the form of paclitaxel-coated devices (PCDs), which significantly reduce rates of restenosis relative to non-PCDs, a finding which has been demonstrated in numerous randomized clinical trials. After their introduction to the market in 2012 (paclitaxel-eluting stents) and 2014 (paclitaxel-coated balloons) their use surged as they replaced non-PCDs and were designated the first-line endovascular therapy by society guidelines. This trend was abruptly reversed, however, after a meta-analysis of summary-level data was published in December of 2018 that reported an elevated mortality associated with PCDs compared with non-PCDs 2-5 years after treatment. This meta-analysis has been criticized for considerable methodological flaws. The Food and Drug Administration conducted a review and concluded that insufficient data existed to make a definitive statement regarding the safety of PCDs. They called for restriction of the use of PCDs to the highest-risk patient populations. At the same time, the FDA deemed pursuing new RCTs to better evaluate PCDs unfeasible due to the high numbers of patients and long follow-up time that would be required. In this setting, real-world data emerged as a powerful source of information for the evaluation of PCDs. Real-world data offers advantages over randomized-controlled trials including expeditious access to and analysis of data and the availability of large numbers of patients. Several retrospective observational studies demonstrate no difference in long-term all-cause mortality in patients treated with PCDs relative to those treated with non-PCDs. This paclitaxel controversy has illustrated the critical role that real-world data is assuming in long-term safety monitoring of medical devices.

Paclitaxel exposure: Long-term safety and effectiveness of a drug-coated balloon for claudication in pooled randomized trials

BACKGROUND

Paclitaxel drug-coated balloons (DCB) prevent recurrent claudication after angioplasty, yet data from randomized trials with incomplete follow-up have raised uncertainty regarding long-term mortality.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of paclitaxel exposure on the long-term safety and efficacy of angioplasty of femoropopliteal artery lesions in the combined IN.PACT randomized trials.

METHODS

The IN.PACT randomized trials (SFA, N = 331 and Japan, N = 100) each compared the DCB with standard percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) for claudication, and consented patients for 5 and 3 years, respectively. To address long-term safety, sites were requested to obtain vital status follow-up. In the pooled, updated data set, we examined the association between randomized treatment and mortality by cumulative incidence and hazard ratio (HR), and freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization (CD-TLR). Multivariable Cox regression with adjustment for baseline characteristics was used to evaluate the dose effect. Causes of death were adjudicated by a blinded clinical events committee that included oncologists with paclitaxel expertise.

RESULTS

The rate of long-term vital status ascertainment increased from 81% to 97% for DCB and from 85% to 97% for PTA in the IN.PACT SFA trial. The cumulative incidence of mortality was 14.7% DCB versus 12.0% PTA at 5 years, HR 1.39, log-rank p = .286. Paclitaxel dose (mg) was not an independent predictor of mortality (HR 1.02, p = .381), but was an independent predictor of reduced risk of CD-TLR (HR 0.79; p < .001). Causes of death did not differ by treatment arm.

CONCLUSIONS

In pooled randomized trial data with updated vital status ascertainment, paclitaxel was associated with improved efficacy but was not associated with increased mortality.

Tibial bypass in patients with intermittent claudication is associated with poor outcomes

OBJECTIVE

Given that intermittent claudication (IC) rarely progresses to chronic limb-threatening ischemia and limb loss, safety and durability of elective interventions for IC are essential. Whether patients with IC benefit from tibial intervention is controversial, and data supporting its utility are limited. Despite endovascular therapy expansion, surgical bypass is still commonly performed. We sought to assess outcomes of bypass to tibial arteries for IC.

METHODS

The Vascular Quality Initiative (2003-2018) was queried for infrainguinal bypasses performed for IC. Perioperative and 1-year outcomes were compared between bypasses constructed to tibial and popliteal arteries.

RESULTS

Of 5347 infrainguinal bypasses, 1173 (22%) and 4184 (78%) were tibial and popliteal bypasses, respectively. Overall, mean age was 65 ± 10 years, and patients were often men (72%) and current smokers (42%). Tibial bypasses commonly targeted posterior tibial (40%), tibioperoneal trunk (23%), and anterior tibial (19%) arteries. Great saphenous vein was more often used for tibial bypass than for popliteal bypass (78% vs 54%; P < .001). Patients undergoing tibial compared with popliteal bypass more often had impaired ambulation and prior ipsilateral bypasses and were less often taking antiplatelets and statins (all P < .05). In the perioperative period, tibial bypass patients had longer postoperative length of stay (4.5 ± 3.5 vs 3.5 ± 2.8 days), more pulmonary complications (1.3% vs 0.6%), and higher return to the operating room (7% vs 4%; all P < .05). Perioperative myocardial infarction (1.2% vs 0.8%; P = .19), stroke (0.4% vs 0.4%; P = .91), and mortality (0.3 vs 0.3%; P = .86) rates were similar between the cohorts. At 1 year, tibial compared with popliteal bypasses exhibited lower freedom from occlusion/death (81% vs 89%; P < .001), ipsilateral major amputation/death (90% vs 94%; P < .001), and reintervention/amputation/death (73% vs 80%; P < .001), but patient survival was similar (96% vs 97%; P = .07). On multivariable analysis, tibial compared with popliteal bypass was independently associated with increased occlusion/death (hazard ratio [HR], 1.65; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.28-2.11; P < .001), major ipsilateral amputation/death (HR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.12-2.19; P = .003), and ipsilateral reintervention/amputation/death (HR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.28-1.79; P < .001), with similar patient survival.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with IC, tibial bypass was associated with poor outcomes, including major amputation. Surgeons should exhaust nonoperative therapies and present realistic outcome expectations to their patients before offering such intervention.

Impact of Kidney Disease on Peripheral Arterial Interventions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on outcomes of patients undergoing peripheral arterial disease (PAD) interventions who have comorbid CKD/ESRD versus those who do not have such comorbid condition. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to analyze outcomes in this patient population.

METHODS

Five databases were searched for studies comparing outcomes of lower extremity PAD interventions for claudication and critical limb ischemia (CLI) in patients with CKD/ESRD versus non-CKD/non-ESRD from January 2000 to June 2019.

RESULTS

Our study included 16 observational studies with 44,138 patients. Mean follow-up was 48.9 ± 27.4 months. Major amputation was higher with CKD/ESRD compared with non-CKD/non-ESRD (odds ratio [OR 1.97] [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.39-2.80], p = 0.001). Higher major amputations with CKD/ESRD versus non-CKD/non-ESRD were only observed when indication for procedure was CLI (OR 2.27 [95% CI 1.53-3.36], p < 0.0001) but were similar for claudication (OR 1.15 [95% CI 0.53-2.49], p = 0.72). The risk of early mortality was high with CKD/ESRD patients undergoing PAD interventions compared with non-CKD/non-ESRD (OR 2.55 [95% CI 1.65-3.96], p < 0.0001), which when stratified based on indication, remained higher with CLI (OR 3.14 [95% CI 1.80-5.48], p < 0.0001) but was similar with claudication (OR 1.83 [95% CI 0.90-3.72], p = 0.1). Funnel plot of included studies showed moderate bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing lower extremity PAD interventions for CLI who also have comorbid CKD/ESRD have an increased risk of experiencing major amputations and early mortality. Randomized trials to understand outcomes of PAD interventions in this at-risk population are essential.

Readmissions to an alternate hospital in patients undergoing vascular intervention for claudication and critical limb ischemia associated with significantly higher mortality

BACKGROUND

Hospital readmissions with 30 days after vascular surgical interventions have been associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and cost. Readmission rates, now a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services quality measure, have been studied in databases that have excluded certain payer types and states and have not accounted for readmission to a hospital different from that of the index admission. More accurate and nationally representative data are needed, because this fragmentation of care could lead to flawed conclusions. The purpose of the present study was to examine the incidence and risk factors for readmission to a nonindex hospital for patients admitted for claudication or critical limb ischemia (CLI). We also examined how this disruption of patient care affects mortality.

METHODS

The 2013 to 2014 Nationwide Readmissions Database was queried for all patients admitted for claudication or CLI who had undergone angioplasty, lower extremity bypass, or aortobifemoral bypass. The outcomes of interest were 30- and 365-day readmission rates to any hospital, 30- and 365-day readmission rates to a nonindex hospital, and mortality rates. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for readmission to a nonindex hospital. The most common readmission diagnoses and diagnosis-related groups were identified.

RESULTS

A total of 92,769 patients had been admitted with peripheral vascular disease (33,055 with claudication and 59,714 with CLI). The 30- and 365-day readmission rate was 8.97% and 21.49% and 19.26% and 40.36%, for claudication and CLI, respectively. Of the 30- and 365-day readmissions, 20.47% and 24.92% had occurred at a nonindex hospital, respectively. Significantly higher mortality rates were found for patients with 30- or 365-day readmissions to different hospitals (odds ratio, 1.4 and 1.8, respectively). Multivariable analysis revealed that procedural indication and angioplasty are not significant risk factors for readmission to a different hospital. However, female sex, length of stay >7 days, and Charlson Comorbidity Index >3 remained significant risk factors for nonindex readmissions. The most common disease groups for nonindex readmission were "septicemia and disseminated infections" (6.5%), "heart failure" (6.4%), "other vascular procedures" (6.1%), and "amputation of lower limb except toes" (4.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Previously unreported, ≥1 in 4 readmissions after lower extremity vascular procedures for peripheral vascular disease will occur at a nonindex hospital. This fragmentation of care is associated with increased mortality and has serious implications for guiding outcome and quality measures. With a sizeable portion of patients missed by current metrics, concern exists that providers are using flawed data. Further study into social- and patient-specific risk factors might provide methods to prevent these readmissions and improve outcomes in this difficult patient population.

Major adverse limb events and major adverse cardiac events after contemporary lower extremity bypass and infrainguinal endovascular intervention in patients with claudication

OBJECTIVE

Major adverse limb events (MALEs) and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) at 30 days provide standardized metrics for comparison and have been adopted by the Society for Vascular Surgery's objective performance goals for critical limb ischemia. However, MALEs and MACEs have not been widely adopted within the claudication population, and the comparative outcomes after lower extremity bypass (LEB) and infrainguinal endovascular intervention (IEI) remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to compare MALEs and MACEs after LEB and IEI in a contemporary national cohort and to determine predictors of MALEs and MACEs after revascularization for claudication.

METHODS

A national data set of LEB and IEI performed for claudication was obtained using National Surgical Quality Improvement Program vascular targeted Participant Use Data Files from 2011 to 2014. Patients were stratified by LEB vs IEI and compared by appropriate univariate analysis. The primary outcomes were MALE (defined as untreated loss of patency, reintervention on the index arterial segment, or amputation of the index limb) and MACE (defined as stroke, myocardial infarction, or death). Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify predictors of MALEs and MACEs.

RESULTS

A total of 3925 infrainguinal revascularization procedures (2155 LEB and 1770 IEI) were performed for claudication. There was no difference in 30-day MALEs between LEB and IEI (4.0% vs 3.2%; P = .17). On multivariable logistic regression, predictors of 30-day MALEs included tibial revascularization (odds ratio [OR], 2.2; P < .0001) and prior LEB on the same arterial segment (OR, 1.8; P = .004). LEB had significantly higher 30-day MACEs (2.0% vs 1.0%; P = .01) but similar mortality (0.5% vs 0.4%; P = .6). Predictors of MACEs included LEB vs IEI (OR, 2.1; P = .01), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR, 2.2; P = .01), dialysis dependence (OR, 4.4; P = .003), and diabetes (OR, 1.9; P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS

In this large national cohort, LEB and IEI for claudication are associated with similar 30-day MALEs. Tibial revascularization and revascularization after prior failed bypass predict MALEs in claudicants and should therefore be undertaken with caution. LEB was associated with more 30-day MACEs but comparable 30-day mortality compared with IEI. Patients with end-stage renal disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and diabetes are at high risk for MACEs. The risk of 30-day MACEs after LEB should be weighed against the longer term outcomes of LEB vs IEI and conservative management, particularly in these higher risk patients. This analysis helps define contemporary 30-day outcomes after infrainguinal revascularization performed for claudication and serves as a baseline with which the short-term outcomes of future treatments can be compared.

Gene therapy for peripheral arterial disease

BACKGROUND

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), caused by narrowing of the arteries in the limbs, is increasing in incidence and prevalence as our population is ageing and as diabetes is becoming more prevalent. PAD can cause pain in the limbs while walking, known as intermittent claudication, or can be more severe and cause pain while at rest, ulceration, and ultimately gangrene and limb loss. This more severe stage of PAD is known as 'critical limb ischaemia'. Treatments for PAD include medications that help to reduce the increased risk of cardiovascular events and help improve blood flow, as well as endovascular or surgical repair or bypass of the blocked arteries. However, many people are unresponsive to medications and are not suited to surgical or endovascular treatment, leaving amputation as the last option. Gene therapy is a novel approach in which genetic material encoding for proteins that may help increase revascularisation is injected into the affected limbs of patients. This type of treatment has been shown to be safe, but its efficacy, especially regarding ulcer healing, effects on quality of life, and other symptomatic outcomes remain unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of gene therapy for symptomatic peripheral arterial disease.

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Vascular Information Specialist searched Cochrane CENTRAL, the Cochrane Vascular Specialised Register, MEDLINE Ovid, Embase Ovid, CINAHL, and AMED, along with trials registries (all searched 27 November 2017). We also checked reference lists of included studies and systematic reviews for further studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised and quasi-randomised studies that evaluated gene therapy versus no gene therapy in people with PAD. We excluded studies that evaluated direct growth hormone treatment or cell-based treatments.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected studies, performed quality assessment, and extracted data from the included studies. We collected pertinent information on each study, as well as data for the outcomes of amputation-free survival, ulcer healing, quality of life, amputation, all-cause mortality, ankle brachial index, symptom scores, and claudication distance.

MAIN RESULTS

We included in this review a total of 17 studies with 1988 participants (evidence current until November 2017). Three studies limited their inclusion to people with intermittent claudication, 12 limited inclusion to people with varying levels of critical limb ischaemia, and two included people with either condition. Study investigators evaluated many different types of gene therapies, using different protocols. Most studies evaluated growth factor-encoding gene therapy, with six studies using vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-encoding genes, four using hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-encoding genes, and three using fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-encoded genes. Two studies evaluated hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) gene therapy, one study used a developmental endothelial locus-1 gene therapy, and the final study evaluated a stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) gene therapy. Most studies reported outcomes after 12 months of follow-up, but follow-up ranged from three months to two years.Overall risk of bias varied between studies, with many studies not providing sufficient detail for adequate determination of low risk of bias for many domains. Two studies did not utilise a placebo control, leading to risk of performance bias. Several studies reported in previous protocols or in their Methods sections that they would report on certain outcomes for which no data were then reported, increasing risk of reporting bias. All included studies reported sponsorships from corporate entities that led to unclear risk of other bias. The overall quality of evidence ranged from moderate to very low, generally as the result of heterogeneity and imprecision, with few or no studies reporting on outcomes.Evidence suggests no clear differences for the outcomes of amputation-free survival, major amputation, and all-cause mortality between those treated with gene therapy and those not receiving this treatment (all moderate-quality evidence). Low-quality evidence suggests improvement in complete ulcer healing with gene therapy (odds ratio (OR) 2.16, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02 to 4.59; P = 0.04). We could not combine data on quality of life and can draw no conclusions at this time regarding this outcome (very low-quality evidence). We included one study in the meta-analysis for ankle brachial index, which showed no clear differences between treatments, but we can draw no overall association (low-quality evidence). We combined in a meta-analysis pain symptom scores as assessed by visual analogue scales from two studies and found no clear differences between treatment groups (very low-quality evidence). We carried out extensive subgroup analyses by PAD classification, dosage schedule, vector type, and gene used but identified no substantial differences.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Moderate-quality evidence shows no clear differences in amputation-free survival, major amputation, and all-cause mortality between those treated with gene therapy and those not receiving gene therapy. Some evidence suggests that gene therapy may lead to improved complete ulcer healing, but this outcome needs to be explored with improved reporting of the measure, such as decreased ulcer area in cm², and better description of ulcer types and healing. Further standardised data that are amenable to meta-analysis are needed to evaluate other outcomes such as quality of life, ankle brachial index, symptom scores, and claudication distance.

In-hospital versus postdischarge major adverse events within 30 days following lower extremity revascularization

OBJECTIVE

Studies using hospital discharge data likely underestimate postoperative morbidity and mortality after lower extremity revascularization because they fail to capture postdischarge events. However, the degree of underestimation and the timing of postdischarge complications are not well-characterized.

METHODS

We used the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program procedure-targeted vascular databases from 2011 to 2015 to tabulate 30-day adverse events (in hospital and after discharge) for lower extremity bypass (LEB) and percutaneous vascular interventions (PVIs) performed for claudication and chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI).

RESULTS

A total of 14,125 patients underwent lower extremity revascularization, 8909 patients (63%) with LEB and 5216 (37%) with PVI. For CLTI, total 30-day mortality was similar between PVI and LEB (2.3% vs 2.1%; P = .61), but in-hospital deaths only accounted for 43% of PVI mortality and only 65% of LEB mortality (P ≤ .001). Major adverse cardiac events occurred in 2.9% of PVI patients and 4.6% of LEB patients (P < .001), with postdischarge events accounting for 37% of PVI events and 18% of LEB (P ≤ .001). Although the 30-day reoperation rates were 14% for PVI and 18% for LEB (P < .001), almost one-half occurred after discharge (PVI 46% vs LEB 44%; P = .55). Any postoperative major adverse events (MAEs) occurred in 22% of patients after PVI and 31% after LEB, with more than one-half occurring after discharge (PVI 56% vs LEB 53%; P = .17). For claudicants, total 30-day mortality was 0.4% for PVI and 0.7% for LEB (P = .32), with the vast majority of events occurring after discharge (PVI 90% vs LEB 50%; P = .049). The 30-day reoperation rates were 5.2% for PVI and 8.0% for LEB (P < .001), with more than one-half occurring after discharge (PVI 63% vs LEB 53%; P = .09). Any MAEs occurred in 7.0% of patients after PVI and 17% after bypass, with the majority occurring after discharge (PVI 65% vs LEB 63%; P = .66).

CONCLUSIONS

Most MAEs occur less frequently after PVI than LEB. However, a significant number of major of adverse events after lower extremity revascularization occur after leaving the hospital, especially after PVI, which may overestimate its benefits compared with LEB if only in-hospital data are evaluated. These data demonstrate the importance of reporting 30-day rather than in-hospital outcomes when evaluating postoperative adverse events.

Regional variation in outcomes for lower extremity vascular disease in the Vascular Quality Initiative

BACKGROUND

Increased focus has been placed on perioperative and long-term outcomes in the treatment of peripheral artery disease (PAD), both for purposes of quality improvement and for assessment of performance at a surgeon and institutional level. This study evaluates regional variation in outcomes after treatment for PAD within the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI). By describing the variation in practice patterns and outcomes across regions, we hope that each regionally based quality group can select which areas are most important for them to focus on as they will have access to their regional data to compare.

METHODS

We identified all patients in the VQI who had infrainguinal bypass or endovascular intervention from 2009 to 2014. We compared variation in perioperative and 1-year outcomes stratified by symptom status and revascularization type among the 16 regional groups of the VQI. We analyzed variation in perioperative end points using χ2 analysis, and 1-year end points were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier and life-table analysis.

RESULTS

We identified 15,338 bypass procedures for symptomatic PAD: 27% for claudication, 59% for chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLI; 61% of these for tissue loss), and 14% for acute limb ischemia. We identified 33,925 endovascular procedures for symptomatic PAD: 42% for claudication, 48% for CLI (73% of these for tissue loss), and 10% for acute limb ischemia. Thirty-day mortality varied significantly after endovascular intervention for CLI (0.5%-3%; P < .001) but not for claudication (0.0%-0.5%, P = .77) or for bypass for claudication (0.0%-2.6%; P = .37) or CLI (0.0%-5.0%; P = .08). After bypass, rates of >2 units transfused red blood cells (claudication, 0.0%-13% [P < .001]; CLI, 6.9%-27% [P < .001]) varied significantly. In-hospital major amputation was variable after bypass for CLI (0.0%-4.3%; P = .004) but not for claudication (0.0%-0.6%; P = .98), as was postoperative myocardial infarction (claudication, 0.0%-4% [P = .36]; CLI, 0.8%-6% [P = .001]). One-year survival varied significantly for endovascular interventions for claudication (92%-100%; P < .001), bypass for CLI (85%-94% [P < .001]), and endovascular interventions for CLI (77%-96%; P < .001) but not after bypass for claudication (95%-100%; P = .57).

CONCLUSIONS

In this real-world comparison among VQI regions, we found significant variation in perioperative and 1-year end points for patients with PAD undergoing bypass or endovascular intervention. This study highlights opportunities for quality improvement efforts to reduce variation and to improve outcomes.

Growth factors for angiogenesis in peripheral arterial disease

BACKGROUND

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is associated with a high clinical and socioeconomic burden. Treatments to alleviate the symptoms of PAD and decrease the risks of amputation and death are a high societal priority. A number of growth factors have shown a potential to stimulate angiogenesis. Growth factors delivered directly (as recombinant proteins), or indirectly (e.g. by viral vectors or DNA plasmids encoding these factors), have emerged as a promising strategy to treat patients with PAD.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of growth factors that promote angiogenesis for treating people with PAD of the lower extremities.

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Vascular Information Specialist searched the Specialised Register (June 2016) and CENTRAL (2016, Issue 5). We searched trial registries for details of ongoing or unpublished studies. We also checked the reference lists of relevant publications and, if necessary, tried to contact the trialists for details of the studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials comparing growth factors (delivered directly or indirectly) with no intervention, placebo or any other intervention not based on the growth factor's action in patients with PAD of the lower extremities. The primary outcomes were limb amputation, death and adverse events. The secondary outcomes comprised walking ability, haemodynamic measures, ulceration and rest pain.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected trials and assessed the risk of bias. We used outcomes of the studies at low risk of bias for the main analysis and of all studies in the sensitivity analyses. We calculated odds ratios (OR) for dichotomous outcomes and mean differences for continuous outcomes with 95% confidence intervals (CI). We evaluated statistical heterogeneity using the I2 statistic and Cochrane's Q test. We conducted meta-analysis for the overall effect and for each growth factor as a subgroup analysis using OR in a fixed-effect model. We evaluated the robustness of the results in a sensitivity analysis using risk ratio (RR) and/or a random-effects model. We also assessed the quality of the evidence for each outcome.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 20 trials in the review and used 14 studies (on approximately 1400 participants) with published results in the analyses. Six published studies compared fibroblast growth factors (FGF), four studies hepatocyte growth factors (HGF) and another four studies vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF), versus placebo or no therapy. Six of these studies exclusively or mainly investigated participants with intermittent claudication and eight studies exclusively participants with critical limb ischaemia. Follow-up generally ranged from three months to one year. Two small studies provided some data at 2 years and one of them also at 10 years.The direction and size of effects for growth factors on major limb amputations (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.71 to 1.38; 10 studies, N = 1075) and death (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.41; 12 studies, N = 1371) at up to two years are uncertain. The quality of the evidence is low due to risk of bias and imprecision (at one year, moderate-quality evidence due to imprecision). However, growth factors may decrease the rate of any limb amputations (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.99; 6 studies, N = 415). The quality of the evidence is low due to risk of bias and selective reporting.The direction and size of effects for growth factors on serious adverse events (OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.50; 13 studies, N = 1411) and on any adverse events (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.64; 4 studies, N = 709) at up to two years are also uncertain. The quality of the evidence is low due to risk of bias and imprecision (for serious adverse events at one year, moderate-quality evidence due to imprecision).Growth factors may improve haemodynamic measures (low-quality evidence), ulceration (very low-quality evidence) and rest pain (very low-quality evidence) up to one year, but they have little or no effect on walking ability (low-quality evidence). We did not identify any relevant differences in effects between growth factors (FGF, HGF and VEGF).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The results of this review do not support the use of therapy with the growth factors FGF, HGF or VEGF in people with PAD of the lower extremities to prevent death or major limb amputation or to improve walking ability. However, the use of these growth factors may improve haemodynamic measures and decrease the rate of any limb amputations (probably due to preventing minor amputations) with an uncertain effect on adverse events; an improvement of ulceration and rest pain is very uncertain. New trials at low risk of bias are needed to generate evidence with more certainty.

Impact of betablockers on general and local outcome in patients hospitalized for lower extremity peripheral artery disease: The COPART Registry

Lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) is one manifestation of atherosclerosis. Patients with PAD have an increased rate of mortality due to concurrent coronary artery disease and hypertension. Betablockers (BB) may, therefore, be prescribed, especially in case of heart failure. However, BB safety in PAD is controversial, because of presumed peripheral hemodynamic consequences of BB that could lead to worsening of symptoms in patients with PAD. In this context, we aimed to determine the impact of BB on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality and amputation rate at 1 year after hospitalization for PAD from the COPART Registry population. This is a prospective multicenter observational study collecting data from consecutive patients hospitalized for PAD in vascular medicine departments of 4 academic hospitals in France. Patients with, either claudication, critical limb ischemia or acute lower limb ischemia related to a documented PAD were included. We compared the outcomes of patients with BB versus those without BB in their prescription list at hospital discharge. The mean age of the study population was 70.9 years, predominantly composed of males (71%). Among the 1267 patients at admission, 28% were treated by BB for hypertension, prior myocardial infarction or heart failure. During their hospital stay, 40% underwent revascularization (including bypass surgery 29% and angioplasty 74%), 17% required an amputation, and 5% died. In a multivariate analysis, only prior myocardial infarction was found associated with BB prescription with an odds ratio (OR) of 3.11, P < 0.001. Conversely, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or PAD with ulcer impeded BB prescription (OR: 0.57 and 0.64, P = 0.007; P = 0.001, respectively). One-year overall mortality of patients with BB did not differ from those without (23% vs. 23%, P = 0.95). The 1-year amputation rate did not differ either (4% vs. 6%, P = 0.14). Patients hospitalized for PAD with a BB in their prescription did not worsen their outcome at 1 year compared to patients without BB. Based on these safety data, prospective study could be conducted to assess the effect of BB on long-term mortality and amputation rate in patients with mild, moderate, and severe PAD.

Popliteal-to-Distal Bypass: Identifying Risk Factors Associated with Limb Loss and Graft Failure

Modern therapy, including endoluminal procedures and improved medical management, still yield less than desired results for tibial vessel occlusive disease. Despite the recent focus on these newer interventions, few modern series have evaluated the efficacy of popliteal-to-distal bypass procedures. The authors aimed to determine the efficacy of popliteal-distal bypass and to identify adverse prognostic factors for ultimate limb salvage. Eighty-seven patients (54 men; average age: 63 years) underwent 92 popliteal-distal bypasses. Duplex ultrasound was utilized to assess patency of all grafts. Data were analyzed by life-table analysis to determine patency rates at postoperative intervals. Median patient follow-up was 2.4 years. Major indications for bypass included chronic limb ischemia (86%) and disabling claudication (8%); 62% of the limbs were considered threatened, and 74% of the proximal anastomoses were above-knee. All procedures were technically successful. There were no perioperative (<30 days) deaths, and 86% of patients were alive at 5 years. Cumulative patency rates were 74% at 6 months, 70% at 2 years, and 63% at 5 years. Limb salvage rates closely paralleled patency rates. At 5 years, 62% of the affected limbs were intact; 72% of the limbs lost were associated with early (<180 days) bypass failures. Predictors of limb loss included early graft failure (84 days vs 1,288 days, p <0.0001), younger age (57 years vs 64 years, p = 0.039), history of previous ipsilateral vascular procedures (50% vs 21%, p = 0.03), heavy (>1 ppd) tobacco use (p = 0.001), and a thrombosed femoral-popliteal bypass at presentation (p = 0.002). When successful, popliteal-distal bypass is associated with excellent long-term patency and limb salvage rates. Early failures are often associated with limb loss. Heavy tobacco use, younger age, early graft failures, repeat revascularization, and presentation with a thrombosed femoral-popliteal graft are associated with limb loss.

Focal aorto-iliac atherosclerosis amenable to endovascular interventions though considered benign carry a significant risk of cardiovascular mortality: clinical investigation

AIM

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) manifested as claudication is surprisingly stable regarding limb deterioration but may indicate increased risk for cardiovascular events and death. We examined whether focal atherosclerotic iliac lesions (TransAtlantic InterSociety Consensus for The Management of Peripheral Arterial Disease-TASC II Type A,B) undergoing endovascular procedures indicate a high risk for limb and life and what is the effect of atherosclerotic risk factors in the rate of adverse outcomes.

METHODS

We examined patients undergoing iliac endovascular interventions due to TASC II Type A,B lesions causing disabling claudication during a 10-year period. Outcome in terms of limb condition and total mortality during short and long-term follow-up was evaluated.

RESULTS

One-hundred thirty-nine patients and one-hundred seventy limbs were examined. Median follow-up was 4.3 years. There were 100 (58.8%) limbs with Type A and 70 (41.2%) with Type B lesions. Primary patency was 81.2% and secondary patency 92.4%. One-hundred fifteen (67.6%) limbs were improved whereas 42 (24.7%) remained stable and 13 (7.7%) deteriorated during long-term follow-up. Major amputation was performed in 2 and minor amputation in 2 limbs resulting in 2.4% total amputation rate. Overall mortality was 22.6% and 64.5% of all deaths represented cardiovascular events. Statistical analysis revealed significant relations of total mortality with hyperlipidemia and diabetes.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular treatment of localized iliac lesions offers good long-term results regarding patency, clinical improvement and limb salvage. Nevertheless, even focal atherosclerosis indicates a significant risk of cardiovascular mortality. Modification of atherosclerotic risk factors early in the course of PAD may be beneficial for these patients.

Relative value of the Ankle-Brachial Index of intermittent claudication

INTRODUCTION

The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) makes it possible to identify patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Intermittent claudication (IC) is the first major symptom of PAD, although many patients with an ABI ≤ 0.9 do not exhibit IC, and the range of ABI among those who do have IC is very variable. This study evaluates the correlation between ABI and the perception (symptomatology) of claudicant patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An observational, cross-sectional and multicentre, study of 920 patients with IC. Clinical history, ABI, Walking Impairment Questionnaire (WIQ) and European Quality of Life Questionnaire (EQ-5D) were recorded. Associations were analysed using Spearman's correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

The mean ABI of the series was 0.63 (SD = 0.19). The mean WIQ-distance was 34.07 (SD = 26.77), values being smaller for lower ABI values (r = 0.343, p < 0.001). The mean EQ-5D score of the series was 0.58 (SD = 0.21), also showing lower values as the ABI decreased (r = 0.278, p < 0.001). The correlations of WIQ and EQ-5D with ABI were statistically significant in both cases, but always less than 0.400 (between 0.278 and 0.343).

CONCLUSIONS

The correlations of ABI with the questionnaires of walking capacity and quality of life are weak. For this reason, although in clinical practice the ABI of CI patients is commonly measured, decisions should not be taken during the development of IC exclusively on the basis of the ABI.

Drug-eluting balloons for femoropopliteal lesions show better performance in de novo stenosis or occlusion than in restenosis

OBJECTIVE

Although drug-eluting balloons (DEBs) have shown promising results treating de novo (DN) atherosclerotic lesions and appear to have been widely adopted in Europe, their long-term efficacy in the broad spectrum of femoropopliteal restenosis (RE) remains to be proven. The purpose of the study was to assess the efficacy of paclitaxel-DEBs in restenotic (stented and nonstented) vs DN stenotic femoropopliteal arteries.

METHODS

The study prospectively enrolled 100 patients undergoing femoropopliteal endovascular intervention by DEB for RE or DN stenosis. Patients who received additive atherectomy were excluded. The primary end point was the primary patency (PP) rate at 12 months. Secondary end points were sustained clinical improvement and clinically driven target lesion revascularization.

RESULTS

DEBs were used to treat 105 limbs for intermittent claudication (82 [78%]) or critical limb ischemia (23 [22%]) in 100 patients. Of these, 111 lesions were DN stenosis (46 [41%]) or RE (65 [59%]). The overall PP was 86% at 6 months and 74% at 12 months. PP of DN stenosis was higher at 6 months (93% vs 81%) and was significantly (P = .021) better than RE at 12 months (85% vs 68%). Sustained clinical improvement based on Rutherford classification was significant in both groups (P < .001). Target lesion revascularization was significantly lower in DN stenosis compared with RE at 12 months (15% vs 32%; P = .021).

CONCLUSIONS

DEB angioplasty is an effective therapy for DN femoropopliteal lesions. The results of DEB angioplasty for RE are inferior compared with DN stenosis after 12 months. Nevertheless, results of DEB angioplasty for RE seem comparable with technically more demanding literature-derived strategies.

Long-term outcome of femoropopliteal stenting. Results of a prospective study

AIM

Aim of the study was to assess the long-term clinical results of primary stent placement in patients with femoro-popliteal lesions and intermittent claudication (IC) or critical limb ischemia (CLI).

METHODS

Prospectively collected data of 517 patients (543 limbs) treated for IC (N.=422; 77.5%) and CLI (N.=121; 22.5%), between September 2006 and December 2010 were evaluated. Survival, limb salvage and patency rates were analyzed and multivariate analysis was performed to evaluate possible risk factors for the development of restenosis.

RESULTS

Mean patients' age was 70.6 years (SD ±10); 64.8% of the patients (N.=335) were male. Angiography revealed TASC A or B lesions in 64.5% (N.=350), TASC C or D lesions in 35.5% (N.=193) of the patients. Two hundred thirty-two patients had evidence of occluded femoropopliteal artery (42.7%) and the remaining patients had evidence of high grade (>70%) stenosis. In total, 827 bare metal nitinol stents (1.53±0.9 per limb) were used. No early (<30-day) procedure-related death was recorded. After a mean follow-up period of 60 months (SD ±13.5), 69 patients died (13.4%). Eight (1.5%) patients underwent major amputation. The amputation rate was significantly higher in the CLI group compared to the IC group (P=0.03). Primary patency rates were 86.2%, 79.1%, 75.1% and 62.2% after 1, 2, 3 and 5 years, respectively. No difference in terms of patency rates was found between the results of the treatment of TASC A/B versus TASC C/D lesions and the patient groups with IC versus CLI.

CONCLUSION

The endovascular-first line treatment with use of nitinol stents for patients with femoropopliteal artery lesions is associated with acceptable long-term patency rates, even in patients with long lesions.

Presentation, treatment, and outcome differences between men and women undergoing revascularization or amputation for lower extremity peripheral arterial disease

OBJECTIVE

Prior studies have suggested treatment and outcome disparities between men and women for lower extremity peripheral arterial disease after surgical bypass. Given the recent shift toward endovascular therapy, which has increasingly been used to treat claudication, we sought to analyze sex disparities in presentation, revascularization, amputation, and inpatient mortality.

METHODS

We identified individuals with intermittent claudication and critical limb ischemia (CLI) using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 1998 to 2009. We compared presentation at time of intervention (intermittent claudication vs CLI), procedure (open surgery vs percutaneous transluminal angioplasty or stenting vs major amputation), and in-hospital mortality for men and women. Regional and ambulatory trends were evaluated by performing a separate analysis of the State Inpatient and Ambulatory Surgery Databases from four geographically diverse states: California, Florida, Maryland, and New Jersey.

RESULTS

From the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, we identified 1,797,885 patients (56% male) with intermittent claudication (26%) and CLI (74%), who underwent 1,865,999 procedures (41% open surgery, 20% percutaneous transluminal angioplasty or stenting, and 24% amputation). Women were older at the time of intervention by 3.5 years on average and more likely to present with CLI (75.9% vs 72.3%; odds ratio [OR], 1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.21-1.23; P < .01). Women were more likely to undergo endovascular procedures for both intermittent claudication (47% vs 41%; OR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.25-1.28; P < .01) and CLI (21% vs 19%; OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.13-1.15; P < .01). From 1998 to 2009, major amputations declined from 18 to 11 per 100,000 in men and 16 to 7 per 100,000 in women, predating an increase in total CLI revascularization procedures that was seen starting in 2005 for both men and women. In-hospital mortality was higher in women regardless of disease severity or procedure performed even after adjusting for age and baseline comorbidities (.5% vs .2% after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty or stenting for intermittent claudication; 1.0% vs .7% after open surgery for intermittent claudication; 2.3% vs 1.6% after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty or stenting for CLI; 2.7% vs 2.2% after open surgery for CLI; P < .01 for all comparisons).

CONCLUSIONS

There appears to be a preference to perform endovascular over surgical revascularization among women, who are older and have more advanced disease at presentation. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty or stenting continues to be popular and is increasingly being performed in the outpatient setting. Amputation and in-hospital mortality rates have been declining, and women now have lower amputation but higher mortality rates than men. Recent improvements in outcomes are likely the result of a combination of improved medical management and risk factor reduction.

[Severe intermittent claudication: PGE1 treatment. A 40-week registry, efficacy and costs]

AIM

Intermittent claudication (IC) in peripheral vascular disease is characterized by lower limb pain appearing on effort. Treatment with PGE1 has been successfully used to manage IC patients. This registry has evaluated safety and costs of PGE1 in the management of IC.

METHODS

In this study a long-term treatment protocol (LTP), a short-term protocol (STP) and an outpatient (OP), "on-demand" treatment have been compared. A treadmill effort test has been used to evaluate walking distance. The follow up for these three protocols was 40 weeks. PGE1 treatment was associated to a risk reduction plan and to an exercise program.

RESULTS

The final analysis has included 252 LTP patients, 223 STP patients and 284 OP patients (total 659 valid cases). A group of 171 comparable patients not treated with PGE1 was used for a parallel comparison. Cardiovascular mortality and morbidity has been evaluated in 731 PGE1 patients completing 24 months of follow up. All protocols have been well tolerated. No side effects were observed. The lower cost has been observed for OP patients. In the long term, mortality and morbidity were lower in patients treated with PGE1 in comparison with patients not treated with PGE1.

CONCLUSION

Considering costs and results (increase in walking distance) and improvement in Karnofsky scale the STP plan appears to be better than LTP for IC patients. The OP, "on-demand" treatment offers further improvements. This last treatment plan is simpler; the plan allows better timing for exercise. The treatment can be used even in non-specialized centers.

Outcomes and practice patterns in patients undergoing lower extremity bypass

BACKGROUND

The appropriate application of endovascular intervention vs bypass for both critical limb ischemia (CLI) and intermittent claudication (IC) remains controversial, and outcomes from large, contemporary series are critical to help inform treatment decisions. Therefore, we sought to define the early and 1-year outcomes of lower extremity bypass (LEB) in a large, multicenter regional cohort, and analyze trends in the use of LEB with or without prior endovascular interventions.

METHODS

The Vascular Study Group of New England database was used to identify all infrainguinal LEB procedures performed between 2003 and 2009. The primary study endpoint was 1-year amputation-free survival (AFS). Secondary endpoints included in-hospital mortality and morbidity, including major adverse cardiac events. Trend analyses were conducted to identify annual trends in the proportion of LEBs performed for an indication of IC, in-hospital outcomes, including mortality and morbidity, and 1-year outcomes, including AFS. Analyses were performed on the entire cohort and then stratified by indication.

RESULTS

Between 2003 and 2009, 2907 patients were identified who underwent LEBs (72% for CLI; 28% for IC). The proportion that underwent LEB for IC increased significantly over the study period (from 19% to 31%; P < .0001). There was a significant increase over time in the proportion of LEBs performed after a previous endovascular intervention among both CLIs (from 11% to 24%; P < .0001) and ICs (from 13% to 23%; P = .02). Neither in-hospital mortality nor cardiac event rates changed significantly among either group. There was no significant change in 1-year AFS in patients with IC (97% in 2003 and 98% in 2008; P for trend .63) or in patients with CLI (73% in 2003 and 81% in 2008; P = .10).

CONCLUSIONS

Over the last 7 years, significant changes in patient selection for LEBs have occurred in New England. The proportion of LEBs performed for ICs as opposed to CLIs has increased. Patients are much more likely to have undergone prior endovascular interventions before undergoing a bypass. In-hospital and 1-year outcomes after LEB for both IC and CLI have remained excellent with no significant changes in AFS.

Results for primary bypass versus primary angioplasty/stent for intermittent claudication due to superficial femoral artery occlusive disease

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty ± stent (PTA/S) and surgical bypass are both accepted treatments for claudication due to superficial femoral artery (SFA) occlusive disease. However, long-term results comparing these modalities for primary intervention in patients who have had no prior intervention have not been reported. We report our results with 3-year follow-up.

METHODS

We reviewed all lower extremity bypass procedures at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center from 2001 through 2009 and all PTA/S performed from 2005 through 2009 for claudication. We excluded all limb salvage procedures and included only those that were undergoing their first intervention for claudication due to SFA disease. We recorded patient demographics, comorbidities, perioperative medications, TASC classification, and runoff. Outcomes included complications, restenosis, symptom recurrence, reinterventions, major amputation, and mortality.

RESULTS

We identified 113 bypass grafts and 105 PTA/S of femoral-popliteal lesions without prior interventions. Bypasses were above the knee in 62% (45% vein) and below the knee in 38% (100% vein). Mean age was 63 (bypass) versus 69 (PTA/S; P < .01). Mean length of stay (LOS) was 3.9 versus 1.2 days (P < .01). Bypass grafts were used less for TASC A (17% vs 40%; P < .01) and more for TASC C (36% vs 11%; P < .01) and TASC D (13% vs 3%; P < .01) lesions. There were no differences in perioperative (2% vs 0%; not significant [NS]) or 3-year mortality (9% vs 8%; NS). Wound infection was higher with bypass (16% vs 0%; P < .01). None involved grafts. Bypass showed improved freedom from restenosis (73% vs 42% at 3 years; hazard ratio [HR], 0.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], .23-.71), symptom recurrence (70% and 36% at 3 years; HR, 0.37; 95% CI, .2-.56), and freedom from symptoms at last follow-up (83% vs 49%; HR, 0.18; 95% CI, .08-.40). There was no difference in freedom from reintervention (77% vs 66% at 3 years; NS). Multivariable analysis of all patients showed that restenosis was predicted by PTA/S (HR, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.4-4.4) and TASC D (HR, 3.7; 95% CI, 3.5-9) lesions. Recurrence of symptoms was similarly predicted by PTA/S (HR, 3.0; 95% CI, 1.8-5) and TASC D lesions (HR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.4-7). Statin use postoperatively was predictive of patency (HR, 0.6; 95% CI, .35-.97) and freedom from recurrent symptoms (HR, 0.6; 95% CI, .36-.93).

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical bypass for the primary treatment of claudication showed improved freedom from restenosis and symptom relief despite treatment of more extensive disease, but was associated with increased LOS and wound infection. Statins improved freedom from restenosis and symptom recurrence overall.

Antiplatelet agents for intermittent claudication

BACKGROUND

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is common and is a marker of systemic atherosclerosis. Patients with symptoms of intermittent claudication (IC) are at increased risk of cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke) and of both cardiovascular and all cause mortality.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effectiveness of antiplatelet agents in reducing mortality (all cause and cardiovascular) and cardiovascular events in patients with intermittent claudication.

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Peripheral Vascular Diseases group searched their Specialised Register (last searched April 2011) and CENTRAL (2011, Issue 2) for publications on antiplatelet agents and IC. In addition reference lists of relevant articles were also searched.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Double-blind randomised controlled trials comparing oral antiplatelet agents versus placebo, or versus other antiplatelet agents in patients with stable intermittent claudication were included. Patients with asymptomatic PAD (stage I Fontaine), stage III and IV Fontaine PAD, and those undergoing or awaiting endovascular or surgical intervention were excluded.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data on methodological quality, participants, interventions and outcomes including all cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, cardiovascular events, adverse events, pain free walking distance, need for revascularisation, limb amputation and ankle brachial pressure indices were collected. For each outcome, the pooled risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was calculated.

MAIN RESULTS

A total of 12 studies with a combined total of 12,168 patients were included in this review. Antiplatelet agents reduced all cause (RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.98) and cardiovascular mortality (RR 0.54, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.93) in patients with IC compared with placebo. A reduction in total cardiovascular events was not statistically significant (RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.63 to 1.01). Data from two trials (which tested clopidogrel and picotamide respectively against aspirin) showed a significantly lower risk of all cause mortality (RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.93) and cardiovascular events (RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.98) with antiplatelets other than aspirin compared with aspirin. Antiplatelet therapy was associated with a higher risk of adverse events, including gastrointestinal symptoms (dyspepsia) (RR 2.11, 95% CI 1.23 to 3.61) and adverse events leading to cessation of therapy (RR 2.05, 95% CI 1.53 to 2.75) compared with placebo; data on major bleeding (RR 1.73, 95% CI 0.51, 5.83) and on adverse events in trials of aspirin versus alternative antiplatelet were limited. Risk of limb deterioration leading to revascularisation was significantly reduced by antiplatelet treatment compared with placebo (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.97).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Antiplatelet agents have a beneficial effect in reducing all cause mortality and fatal cardiovascular events in patients with IC. Treatment with antiplatelet agents in this patient group however is associated with an increase in adverse effects, including GI symptoms, and healthcare professionals and patients need to be aware of the potential harm as well as the benefit of therapy; more data are required on the effect of antiplatelets on major bleeding. Evidence on the effectiveness of aspirin versus either placebo or an alternative antiplatelet agent is lacking. Evidence for thienopyridine antiplatelet agents was particularly compelling and there is an urgent need for multicentre trials to compare the effects of aspirin against thienopyridines.

Peripheral arterial disease--natural outcome

Three hundred and twelve patients with peripheral arterial disease were followed up for 8 3/4 years or more (maximum 11 3/4 years) to assess the natural history of the disease and factors determining its outcome. Of the 312 patients, 188 (69%) died during the follow-up, 68% of the deaths having cardiovascular causes. The 10-year relative cumulative survival rate was 0.61 for males and 0.48 for females. The role of smoking as a risk factor could not be analysed without bias. In addition to known risk factors diabetes mellitus, cerebrovascular disease and coronary heart disease, the degree of peripheral arterial disease itself also proved to be a risk factor among men. The expected life lost for men with intermittent claudication was 20%, but 44.3% for men with advanced lower limb ischaemia (p less than 0.01). This difference could not be explained by the well-known association of advanced ischaemia and diabetes mellitus. The present results therefore suggest that the state of advanced ischaemia indicates larger involvement of the whole of the arterial tree and predicts fatal cardiovascular events among these patients.

[Diabetes, heart surgery and the peripheral arteries]

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is an under-recognized and underestimated complication of diabetes. Prevalence of PAD in diabetic patients is 25-30%. The main reason for underreporting is the largely asymptomatic nature of PAD in diabetes. It is important to diagnose PAD as soon as possible because PAD is an important marker for systemic atherosclerosis. Patients with claudication have approximately a 30% five-year mortality rate. PAD patients die 10 years earlier than patients without this atherothrombotic disease. About 70% of the PAD patients die from coronary heart disease, 5-11% die from stroke. PAD and diabetes are comorbid conditions and are associated with the risk of death from coronary artery bypass graft surgery. The prevalence of diabetes in patients who undergo cardiac surgery is 30% and the prevalence of PAD is 18%. The presence of PAD in diabetic patients had a similar 2-fold increase in the annual incidence of death compared with diabetic patients without PAD. The theory that diabetes and PAD together is associated with small vessel disease may play a role in the cause of the higher long-term mortality seen in at least two studies (Circulation 2004; suppl II: II/41-II/44).

Long-term outcome after isolated endarterectomy of the femoral bifurcation

BACKGROUND

Long-term outcome after endarterectomy of the femoral bifurcation has not been widely investigated, and the aim of this study was to assess its late results from a community-wide perspective.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1983 and 2006 111 isolated endarterectomies of the common femoral artery and/or the proximal part of the superficial femoral artery or profunda femoris were performed in 90 patients at the Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland. A total of 77 limbs were treated surgically for claudication and 34 others for critical limb ischemia. Angiographic findings of 100 extremities were evaluated.

RESULTS

The in-hospital mortality rate was 1.8%. The mean follow-up period was 5.9 years. At 5-, 10-, and 15-year follow-up the overall survival was 60.5%, 32.7%, and 17.6%, respectively (S.E < 0.05). A C-reactive protein value > or = 10 mg/l was predictive of poor late survival (p = 0.008). Limb salvage rates after isolated femoral endarterectomy at 5-, 10-, and 15-year follow-up were 93.7%, 93.7%, and 85.2%, respectively (S.E. < 0.08). Critical limb ischemia (p = 0.006) and current smoking (p = 0.027) were independent predictors of major lower limb amputation. A total of 41 limbs were subjected to ipsilateral vascular procedures after femoral endarterectomy, only one of which was re-endarterectomy. Freedom from any ipsilateral revascularization procedure at 5-, 10-, and 15-year follow-up was calculated at 68.0%, 50.6%, and 42.5%, respectively (S.E. < 0.08). The overall linearized rate of reintervention on the ipsilateral limb was 0.16 +/- 0.44/year. The linearized rate among patients who had any ipsilateral vascular reintervention was 0.43 +/- 0.66/year.

CONCLUSIONS

Isolated femoral endarterectomy is a rather low-risk and durable procedure. However, a significant number of reinterventions distal or proximal to the endarterectomized site can be expected in one third of patients.

[Characteristics and one-year follow-up of patients with peripheral arterial disease. Initial results of the COPART I registry]

INTRODUCTION

Almost all patients with the most severe peripheral arterial diseases (PAD) patients are hospitalised. This means that the hospital is a particularly good place to observe the characteristics and outcome of PAD patients. It is for this reason that the hospitalised patient registry (COPART I) was created.

RESULTS

From June 1st 2004 to May 31st 2005, we included 187 patients surviving at hospital discharge. As expected the majority were men (68.4%). The median age was 72 (+/- 13 years). Almost one third of the PAD of patients suffered from intermittent claudication and two thir (63,6%) from permanent ischemia. A large majority of this latter group had critical limb ischemia. We found a mortality rate of 17.1% at the on year follow-up. These deaths were mainly of cardiovascular origin (9.1%). Almost 2/3 of the deaths had already occurred by six months. One patient in four undergone major or minor amputation during the follow up 2/3 of them involving major amputation. This figure rose to fou patients in ten for critical limb disease. A previous history of both major and minor amputation is strongly related with new amputations (RR = (CI: 1.2-7.5) P = 0.02). After one year of follow-up, almost four patients in ten (42.6%) with permanent ischemia had died, undergone major amputation, or suffered an MI or an IS.

CONCLUSION

Peripheral arterial disease remains a severe chronic disease linked to excess mortality of cardiovascular origin. Therefore patients should be given optimal treatment.

Review of mortality and cardiovascular event rates in patients enrolled in clinical trials for claudication therapies

Pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions to improve function and quality of life in patients with claudication are being evaluated in clinical research trials. An important component of clinical development programs is assessing the safety of the intervention and monitoring for adverse impact of the therapy on research participants. The conduct of both of these safety assessments is facilitated by the ability to estimate the anticipated rates of cardiovascular events and death in the target population. To obtain estimates of these rates, data were abstracted from randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials performed in patients with claudication and designed to show functional improvement, and which have been published since 1990. Patient-year exposures and the number of deaths, serious adverse events and cardiovascular serious adverse events in the placebo arms of these trials were tabulated, and summed event rates calculated. The mortality rate was 1.9 deaths per hundred patient-years (27 deaths observed in 1446 patient-years). The mortality rate in claudication trials is lower than that reported in natural history studies. Cardiovascular serious adverse events in claudication trials were observed at a rate of 8.5 per hundred patient-years (65 events in 762 patient-years). Thus, cardiovascular morbidity and mortality should be expected in clinical trials enrolling claudicants. The current analyses provide benchmark data for ensuring that development programs are large enough to allow meaningful safety conclusions, and to assist in data and safety monitoring of these trials.

The Oslo Balloon Angioplasty versus Conservative Treatment Study (OBACT)—The 2-years Results of a Single Centre, Prospective, Randomised Study in Patients with Intermittent Claudication

OBJECTIVES

To compare the effect of optimal medical treatment only (OMT) with OMT combined with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (OMT+PTA) in patients with intermittent claudication (IC).

DESIGN

A single centre prospective, randomised study. Quality of life (QoL) was the primary outcome measure. Secondary measures were ankle-brachial-index (ABI), treadmill walking distances and mortality.

METHODS

From a total of 434 patients considered for inclusion into the trial, only 56 patients with disabling IC fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The patients were randomised into treatment groups consisting of 28 patients each and followed for 2 years. ABI and treadmill walking distances were measured in addition to the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain evaluation, and QoL assessment using the Short Form (SF-36 and Claudication Scale (CLAU-S).

RESULTS

The demographic data in the 2 groups were almost identical. After 2 years of follow-up the ABI, the treadmill walking distances and the VAS were significant improved in the group treated with OMT+PTA, compared to the group treated with OMT only (p<0.01 for all). Furthermore, some variables from the QoL assessment also showed a significant improvement in favour of the OMT+PTA group (p<0.05 for all).

CONCLUSION

The advantage of conducting a single centre study and adhering to very strict inclusion criteria was illustrated by the homogenous demographic data of the two groups. This partly outweighed the disadvantage of having included a relatively small number of patients. Early intervention with PTA in addition to OMT seems to have a generally more positive effect compared to OMT only, on haemodynamic, functional as well as QoL aspects during the first 2 years in patients with IC.

Increasing Endovascular Intervention for Claudication: Impact on Vascular Surgery Resident Training

PURPOSE

To audit the caseloads of vascular surgery residents in the management of disabling claudication and assess the influence of endovascular procedures on overall operative experience.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of vascular surgery resident experience in the open and endovascular management of lower limb claudication during two 3-year periods (January 2000 to December 2002 and January 2003 to December 2005). The time periods differed with regard to number of surgical faculty with advanced endovascular skills (3 in the first period and 4 in the second) and the availability of portable operating room angiography equipment.

RESULTS

During the 6-year period, the operative logs of vascular surgery residents indicated participation in 283 procedures [170 (60%) open surgical interventions, including 146 suprainguinal procedures] performed for claudication. The number of procedures increased by 62% (p<0.05) from the first period (n=108) to the second (n=175). Endovascular intervention to treat aortoiliac occlusive disease increased 4-fold (14 versus 56 interventions, p=0.01) compared to a decrease in open (bypass grafting, endarterectomy) surgical repair (45 to 31 procedures, p=0.22). The greatest change in resident experience was in endovascular intervention of infrainguinal occlusive disease: the case volume increased from 4 to 39 procedures (p=0.07) during the 2 time intervals. By contrast, the number of open surgical bypass procedures was similar (45 versus 49) in each 3-year period.

CONCLUSION

An audit of resident experience demonstrated intervention for claudication has increased during the past 6 years. The increased operative experience reflects more endovascular treatment (atherectomy, angioplasty, stent-graft placement) of femoropopliteal and aortoiliac occlusive disease, but no decrease in open surgical operative experience for claudication. This increase in endovascular intervention may be related to a decrease in the threshold for intervention.

One-year prospective quality-of-life outcomes in patients treated with angioplasty for symptomatic peripheral arterial disease

BACKGROUND

Despite lower reported patency rates than open bypass, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) may result in symptom relief, limb salvage, maintenance of ambulation and independent living, and overall improved quality of life. The goal of this study was to prospectively assess quality of life and functional outcomes after angioplasty and stenting in patients with chronic leg ischemia.

METHODS

From August to December 2002, 84 patients with 118 chronically ischemic limbs underwent PTA with or without stenting as part of an ongoing prospective project performed to examine management of symptomatic peripheral arterial disease. All patients completed a preprocedure health questionnaire (Short Form 36) to provide adequate baseline data. Each patient was followed up every 3 months after treatment for 1 year to determine traditional outcomes of arterial patency, limb salvage, survival and amputation-free survival, and functional outcomes assessed according to improvement in quality of life, maintenance of ambulatory status, and maintenance of independent living status. The entire cohort was analyzed, as were subgroups of patients with lifestyle-limiting claudication and those with critical limb ischemia. Outcomes were analyzed by using Kaplan-Meier life-table analysis, the log-rank test for survival curves, and the one-sample t test. A Cox proportional hazard model was used to determine whether presentation and level of disease were independent predictors of outcome.

RESULTS

Of the 84 patients, 54 (64.3%) were treated for claudication (34 aortoiliac occlusive disease and 20 infrainguinal disease), and 30 (35.7%) were treated for critical limb ischemia (11 aortoiliac occlusive disease and 19 infrainguinal disease). One-year results for the 54 patients with claudication were as follows: primary patency, 78.5%; limb salvage, 100%; amputation-free survival, 96.3%; survival, 96.3%; maintenance of ambulation status, 100%; and maintenance of independence, 100%. There was statistical improvement in all physical function categories, including physical function (29.4 +/- 8.9 vs 37.1 +/- 11.3; P < .0001), role-physical (32.5 +/- 11.3 vs 39.5 +/- 13.0; P = .0001), bodily pain (35.8 +/- 8.5 vs 42.9 +/- 10.9; P < .0001), and aggregate physical scoring (31.1 +/- 9.7 vs 38.1 +/- 11.5; P < .0001). One-year results for the 30 patients with critical limb ischemia were as follows: primary patency, 35.2%; limb salvage, 77.2%; amputation-free survival, 50.0%; survival, 60.0%; maintenance of ambulation status, 75.8%; and maintenance of independence, 92.8%. There was statistical improvement in bodily pain resolution (35.3 +/- 12.0 vs 46.6 +/- 12.0; P = .0009). Cox models with hazard ratios (HRs) revealed that presentation was a significant predictor for outcomes of primary patency (HR, 4.2; P= .0002), secondary patency (HR, 6.0; P < .0001), limb salvage (HR, 20.2; P = .0047), survival (HR, 10.9; P = .0002), and amputation-free survival (HR, 11.2; P < .0001). Conversely, the level of disease was predictive of outcome only for primary patency (HR, 1.8; P = .00289).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite inferior reconstruction patency rates when compared with the historical results of open bypass, PTA provides excellent functional outcomes with good patient satisfaction, especially for treating claudication. These findings support a more liberal use of PTA intervention for patients with vasculogenic claudication.

The Long-term Prognostic Value of the Resting and Postexercise Ankle-Brachial Index

BACKGROUND

Peripheral arterial disease is associated with a high incidence of cardiovascular mortality. Peripheral arterial disease can be detected by using the ankle-brachial index (ABI). This study assessed the prognostic value of the postexercise ABI in addition to the resting ABI on long-term mortality in patients with suspected peripheral arterial disease.

METHODS

In this prospective cohort study of 3209 patients (mean +/- SD age, 63 +/- 12 years; 71.1% male), resting and postexercise ABI values were measured and a reduction of postexercise ABI over baseline resting readings was calculated. The mean follow-up was 8 years (interquartile range, 4-11 years).

RESULTS

During follow-up, 1321 patients (41.2%) died. After adjusting for clinical risk factors, lower resting ABI values (hazard ratio per 0.10 lower ABI, 1.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06-1.10), lower postexercise ABI values (hazard ratio per 0.10 lower ABI, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.08-1.11), and higher reductions of ABI values over baseline readings (hazard ratio per 10% lower ABI, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.09-1.14) were significantly associated with a higher incidence of mortality. In patients with a normal resting ABI (n = 789), a reduction of the postexercise ABI by 6% to 24%, 25% to 55%, and greater than 55% was associated with a 1.6-fold (95% CI, 1.2-2.2), 3.5-fold (95% CI, 2.4-5.0), and 4.8-fold (95% CI, 2.5-9.1) increased risk of mortality, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Resting and postexercise ABI values are strong and independent predictors of mortality. A reduction of postexercise ABI over baseline readings can identify additional patients (who have normal ABI values at rest) at increased risk of subsequent mortality.

Impact of genetic variations in the WRN gene on age related pathologies and mortality

Mutations in the WRN gene lead to the Werner syndrome (WS), which resembles premature aging. Here, we hypothesize that genetic variations in the WRN gene may also influence aging-trajectories in the population at large. To test this hypothesis, we assessed the impact of the i1-C/T, L1074F and C1367R polymorphisms in the WRN gene on the occurrence of cardiovascular pathologies, on cognitive performance and on the risks of all-cause, cardiovascular and cancer mortalities in the population-based Leiden 85-plus Study. This prospective follow-up study includes 1,245 participants aged 85 years and older, with a total follow-up of 5,164 person-years. At baseline the risks of myocardial infarction, myocardial ischemia, intermittent claudication, arterial surgery and stroke dependent on the i1-C/T, L1074F and C1367R polymorphisms, did not vary between the different genotypes. Also no differences in cognitive functioning were observed, except for attention, where carriers of the 1367R allele performed worse compared to the 1367C homozygotes (94.2 (4.35) versus 84.8 (1.84), p=0.04). Mortality risks, calculated separately for all SNPs, were similar between the different genotype carriers of the i1-C/T, L1074F and C1367R polymorphisms, showing no evidence of altered survival. In conclusion, the i1-C/T, L1074F and C1367R polymorphisms in the WRN gene do not influence the aging-trajectories and survival in the population at large.

Peripheral Angioplasty as the First-choice Revascularization Procedure in Diabetic Patients with Critical Limb Ischemia: Prospective Study of 993 Consecutive Patients Hospitalized and Followed Between 1999 and 2003

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of peripheral angioplasty (PTA) as the first-choice revascularisation procedure in diabetic patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI).

DESIGN

Prospective study.

METHODS

PTA was employed as first choice revascularisation in a consecutive series of diabetic patients hospitalized for CLI between January 1999 and December 2003.

RESULTS

PTA was successful performed in 993 patients. Seventeen (1.7%) major amputations were carried out. One death and 33 non-fatal complications were observed. Mean follow-up was 26+/-15 months. Clinical restenosis was observed in 87 patients. The 5 years primary patency was 88%, 95% CI 86-91%. During follow-up 119 (12.0%) patients died at a rate of 6.7% per year.

CONCLUSIONS

PTA as the first choice revascularisation procedure is feasible, safe and effective for limb salvage in a high percentage of diabetic patients. Clinical restenosis was an infrequent event and PTA could successfully be repeated in most cases.

Critical appraisal of femorofemoral crossover grafts

Background

The aim of this study was to determine how often femorofemoral crossover grafting for critical ischaemia or intermittent claudication gives an ideal result. An ideal result is an uncomplicated operation with primary wound healing, relief of ischaemic symptoms without recurrence and no need for further intervention.

Methods

All patients undergoing primary femorofemoral crossover grafting between January 1988 and December 2003 were studied.

Results

Some 144 operations were analysed; 51 patients had critical ischaemia and 93 claudication. There was one postoperative death (0·7 per cent). Complications occurred within 30 days in 32 patients (22·2 per cent), including graft occlusion in three (2·1 per cent); six patients (4·2 per cent) required early reoperation. Primary patency for patients with critical ischaemia was 88, 82 and 74 per cent at 1, 3 and 5 years respectively. Respective figures for those who presented with claudication were 93, 92 and 90 per cent (P = 0·034). Late symptoms included graft occlusion (20 patients), disease progression (25), ongoing ulceration (six), graft infection (nine), false aneurysm formation (two) and late donor-site stenosis (two).

Conclusion

When obtaining informed consent, simply describing patency and limb salvage rates does not provide an accurate picture of the outcome of femorofemoral grafting.

Epidemiology of peripheral arterial disease

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is not an uncommon but a commonly neglected condition by many medical practitioners. It is a disease that threatens not only the limb but also life itself! Atherosclerosis is the commonest cause of PAD in the western nations. The cardinal symptom is intermittent claudication (IC) but majority of the patients are asymptomatic. Ankle-brachial pressure index (ABI) is an effective screening tool for PAD. A diminished ABI (< 0.9) is a definite sign of PAD. Its prevalence steadily increases with age. In Germany almost a fifth of the patients aged over 65 years suffer from it. With increasing life expectancy the prevalence of PAD is on the increase. PAD is a manifestation of diffuse and severe atherosclerosis. It is a strong marker of cardiovascular disease; a very strong association exists between PAD and other atherosclerotic disorders such as coronary artery disease (CAD) and cerebrovascular disease (CVD). PAD is an independent predictor of high mortality in patients with CAD. Smoking, diabetes mellitus and advancing age are the cardinal risk factors. A relatively small number of PAD patients lose limbs by amputation. Most paitients with PAD die of either heart attacks or strokes and they die of the former conditions far earlier than controls. PAD still remains an esoteric disease and there is a significant lack of awareness of this condition by many physicians, and therefore under-diagnosed and underestimated. Measures to promote awareness of PAD among physicians and the society in general are needed. Since most patients are asymptomatic and carry potentially significant morbidity and mortality risks, screening for PAD should be made a routine practice at primary care level.

Dacron femoral-popliteal bypass grafts in good-risk claudicant patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate prosthetic femoral-popliteal (FP) grafts as bypass conduits in favorable patients with refractory calf claudication.

SETTING

University-affiliated urban teaching hospital.

METHODS

Cohort study of patency of 6-mm Dacron FP grafts used to treat patients with medically refractory calf claudication meeting the following criteria: nonsmoker; above-knee popliteal artery as an appropriate target vessel; > or =2-vessel tibial outflow; and postoperative anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy. End points included primary and secondary FP graft patency, need for and outcome of subsequent intervention, limb amputation, and survival.

RESULTS

From January 1998 through March 2001, 92 patients underwent 100 Dacron bypass grafts for medically refractory claudication. All underwent serial postoperative graft surveillance using duplex ultrasound. Using the Society for Vascular Surgery/International Society of Cardiovascular Surgery criteria life-table, primary patency was 84%, assisted primary patency was 88%, and secondary patency was 90% at 5 years. Two patients (2%) died during a mean follow-up period of 49 months (range 30 to 68). No limbs required amputation. Among 9 limbs in which Dacron FP bypass failed, 8 underwent subsequent successful autogenous bypass to the popliteal artery.

CONCLUSION

In highly selected subjects with favorable features known to increase the likelihood of prosthetic graft patency, prosthetic FP grafts function well. Such patients undergo a simpler, more straightforward procedure than when autogenous FP bypass is performed. Subsequent success of autogenous FP repeat bypass suggests that previous prosthetic FP bypass does not threaten lower-extremity arterial outflow.

Leg blood flow and long-term cardiovascular prognosis in men with typical and atypical intermittent claudication

OBJECTIVES

To compare leg blood flow and the long-term cardiovascular prognosis in men with typical and atypical intermittent claudication (IC) according to Rose's questionnaire.

METHODS

Leg blood flow during reactive hyperaemia was assessed at 55 years of age by calf plethysmography. Measurement of the systolic ankle-arm pressure index was used to assess the prevalence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) at 68 years of age. Mortality and incidence of cardiac events is based on record linkage with regional and national registers.

RESULTS

Twenty-one (3%) out of 700 men had typical IC at 55 years of age. Sixteen (76%) of these had normal plethysmography, with a mean peak flow (95% CI) of 24.6 (19.3-30.0) ml/min/100 ml. Peak flows were similar and normal in men with atypical IC (mean 22.5; 95% CI 21.3-23.6) and men having no pain (mean 23.8; 95% CI 23.1-24.4). Mortality rates were increased in men with typical IC but who had normal leg blood flow (49.5 deaths/1000 person years; p = 0.008), and men having atypical IC (35.3 deaths/1000 person years; p = 0.007) in comparison with men having no leg pain (27.4 deaths/1000 person years). This could not be accounted for by an increased cardiac event rate. The prevalence of PAD at 68 years of age was not increased in either of these two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Only 12% of subjects with exertional pain fulfilled all criteria for typical IC. Typical and atypical claudication in absence of objective evidence of PAD was associated with a reduced life expectancy, but not with an increased cardiovascular risk. To properly assess the prognosis, non-invasive assessment of PAD should be used in addition to questionnaires.

Determinants of successful synthetic hemodialysis vascular access graft placement

OBJECTIVE

Synthetic vascular grafts, the most common type of permanent dialysis graft used in the United States, are associated with great morbidity and expense. In this cohort study of patients undergoing hemodialysis and receiving a new synthetic vascular graft, detailed intraoperative procedural data were examined as predictors of graft dysfunction and failure.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study of patients receiving hemodialysis who had undergone synthetic (polytetrafluoroethylene) graft placement over 4(1/2) years were followed up until either the graft was no longer usable, kidney transplantation was performed, the patient died, or the study ended. The principal methods of analysis used were the Kaplan-Meier method, to compute survival function for primary and secondary graft patency, and Cox proportional hazards regression, to model associations between predictor variables and graft failure.

RESULTS

Of 284 patients enrolled in the study, 172 patients (61%) had at least one graft-related event, ie, temporary graft dysfunction or graft failure, during follow-up. Three-year cumulative graft survival was 54% (95% confidence interval, 45%-62%). Using proportional hazards analysis, history of claudication (rate ratio [RR], 2.14 [range, 0.97-4.73]; P =.06), number of previous permanent grafts (1 graft: RR, 1.49 [range, 0.88-2.51]; 2 or more grafts: RR, 2.85 [range, 1.43-5.69]; P =.01), dialysis dependency at surgery (RR, 2.96 [range, 1.23-7.12]; P =.02), and use of arterial clamps in construction of the graft (RR, 2.32 [range, 1.14-4.73]; P =.02) were associated with lower survival, even after accounting for medical history. Type of graft material, ie, Gore-Tex versus other material (RR, 0.28 [range, 0.16-0.50]; P <.01) and use of the axillary vein (RR, 0.61 [range, 0.36- 1.02]; P =.06) for the access site were associated with a lower rate of graft failure. Similar results were found with Poisson analysis of all graft-related events. In addition, acute arterial anastomosis, ie, arterial angle less than 90 degrees (RR, 0.63 [range, 0.45-0.91]; P =.01) and use of the brachial artery versus the radial artery (RR, 0.54 [range, 0.33-0.54]; P =.01) were associated with a lower rate of graft-related events.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest possible areas for intervention to improve synthetic vascular graft outcome.

Renal insufficiency as a predictor of cardiovascular outcomes and mortality in elderly individuals

OBJECTIVES

This study was designed to evaluate the relationship between elevated creatinine levels and cardiovascular events.

BACKGROUND

End-stage renal disease is associated with high cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The association of mild to moderate renal insufficiency with cardiovascular outcomes remains unclear.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the Cardiovascular Health Study, a prospective population-based study of subjects, aged >65 years, who had a serum creatinine measured at baseline (n = 5,808) and were followed for a median of 7.3 years. Proportional hazards models were used to examine the association of creatinine to all-cause mortality and incident cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Renal insufficiency was defined as a creatinine level > or =1.5 mg/dl in men or > or =1.3 mg/dl in women.

RESULTS

An elevated creatinine level was present in 648 (11.2%) participants. Subjects with elevated creatinine had higher overall (76.7 vs. 29.5/1,000 years, p < 0.001) and cardiovascular (35.8 vs. 13.0/1,000 years, p < 0.001) mortality than those with normal creatinine levels. They were more likely to develop cardiovascular disease (54.0 vs. 31.8/1,000 years, p < 0.001), stroke (21.1 vs. 11.9/1,000 years, p < 0.001), congestive heart failure (38.7 vs. 17/1,000 years, p < 0.001), and symptomatic peripheral vascular disease (10.6 vs. 3.5/1,000 years, p < 0.001). After adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors and subclinical disease measures, elevated creatinine remained a significant predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, total cardiovascular disease (CVD), claudication, and congestive heart failure (CHF). A linear increase in risk was observed with increasing creatinine.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated creatinine levels are common in older adults and are associated with increased risk of mortality, CVD, and CHF. The increased risk is apparent early in renal disease.

Long-term outcome of patients with claudication after balloon angioplasty of the femoropopliteal arteries

PURPOSE

To report the long-term outcome of patients with lifestyle-limiting claudication after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) of the femoropopliteal arteries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 1989 and 1992, 173 consecutive claudicant patients (mean age, 65 years; age range, 41-90 years) underwent PTA in 218 limbs; all interventions included femoral and/or popliteal arterial segments, and additional iliac (n = 27) and infrapopliteal (n = 11) arterial lesions were also treated. Patients were followed up for 7-10 years. Altogether, 37 (17%) limbs were classified as Fontaine class 2A, and 181 (83%) were class 2B. Average length of the primary lesion was 5.2 cm. Reinterventions were analyzed. Patency rates and patient survival were assessed by means of life table analysis. Cox-Mantel tests and Cox proportional hazards models were used to define associated independent determinants. Development of chronic critical ischemia (CCI) and its determinants was assessed by using the Pearson chi(2) test and multiple logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The primary and secondary patencies (+/- standard error of the estimate), respectively, were 46% +/- 3 and 63% +/- 3 at 1 year, 25% +/- 3 and 41% +/- 4 at 5 years, and 14% +/- 3 and 22% +/- 4 at 10 years. One-third (71 of 218) of the limbs required repeat interventions, including surgical revascularization in 35 limbs. Fourteen (6.4%) limbs developed CCI, resulting in a 0.8% incidence per year. In multivariate analysis, poor postinterventional peripheral runoff was an indicator of increased risk of CCI development (P =.03).

CONCLUSION

Although the long-term patency rates of PTA of the femoropopliteal arteries in claudicant patients were poor, the acceptable number of reinterventions and the low frequency of development of CCI imply the long-term benefits achievable with this treatment.

The evolution of the axillofemoral bypass over two decades

To determine if the indications and numbers of the axillofemoral bypass have changed, a retrospective analysis was performed of all patients undergoing axillofemoral bypass over the past two decades. Group A (1980-89) and group B (1990-99) were compared using demographics, comorbid illness, perioperative outcomes, and indications for operation. There were 33 extraanatomic bypasses performed in group A and 24 extraanatomic bypasses in group B. The average age in both group A and group B was 69 years. Males comprised a higher percentage in group B (75%) than in group A (55%). The percentage of smokers was roughly equivalent (group A 76%, group B 71%). Coronary artery disease was more prevalent in group A (85%) than in group B (63%). Diabetes mellitus was also more common in group A (33%) than in group B (21%). All of the grafts in group B were composed of PTFE and there were 2 early (30 day) failures (6%). There were no perioperative deaths, strokes, or myocardial infarctions. At our institution, the axillofemoral bypass is now reserved almost exclusively for the treatment of graft infections and rarely for primary limb ischemia. This evolution is a reflection of the increase in interventional techniques used to improve inflow in high-risk patients who require revascularization.

Peripheral arterial occlusive disease: prognostic value of signs, symptoms, and the ankle-brachial pressure index

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether different levels of the ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) are associated with an increased risk for progressive limb ischemia, nonfatal and fatal cardiovascular events. To investigate the prognostic value of signs and symptoms associated with peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD).

DESIGN

Prospective follow-up study.

SETTING

Eighteen general practice centers in the Netherlands.

PARTICIPANTS

Three thousand six hundred forty-nine participants (53% female) with a mean age of 59 years (range: 40-78 years).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Progressive limb ischemia, cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

At baseline, 458 participants had PAOD, defined as an ABPI < 0.95. Among these, 148 (32.2%) had an ABPI < 0.70. Cox proportional hazards models showed that after a mean follow-up period of 7.2 years, PAOD patients with an ABPI < 0.70 were at higher risk for cardiovascular death, compared with participants with a moderately reduced ABPI (< 0.95 - > or = 0.70): HR 2.3 versus 1.2. Older age, complaints of intermittent claudication, abnormal pedal pulses, elevated blood pressure, and coexisting cardiovascular disease at baseline were also significant independent prognostic factors for one or more of the adverse outcome events in these patients.

CONCLUSION

The ABPI is inversely associated with cardiovascular mortality in PAOD patients. A low ABPI is an independent predictor for cardiovascular mortality in PAOD patients.

Endovascular surgery for chronic limb ischaemia. Factors predicting immediate outcome on the basis of a nationwide vascular registry

PURPOSE

To evaluate the early results of endovascular treatment of chronic limb ischemia and the factors influencing outcome.

METHODS

The 5,575 endovascular procedures entered into the national vascular registry in 1991-1994 were reviewed retrospectively. Indication was claudication in 3,873 and chronic critical ischemia (CLI) in 1,702 procedures. In CLI most patients were women and older, with a higher proportion of diabetes mellitus, renal insufficiency and coronary heart disease than in claudication group although the incidence of smoking and hyperlipidaemia was lower. 60.2% of the procedures were performed in femoropopliteal arteries, 24.9% in iliac arteries and 14.9% in infrapopliteal arteries. The follow-up was 30 days.

RESULTS

In the claudication group there was clinical improvement in 2,719 (82.8%) and in the CLI group in 851 (70.9%) of patients. Patency was better in the claudication than in CLI group, 94.6% vs. 89.0% respectively. There was hemodynamic improvement, i.e. improvement of the ankle-brachial index of more than 0.15 in 1,680 (58.2%) patients with claudication and in 437 (59.7%) with CLI. In a logistic regression model diabetes mellitus and renal insufficiency increased the relative risk of amputations and mortality in CLI group, whereas, incidence of amputations was lower in patients with hyperlipidaemia. In claudication group femoropopliteal arteries had an adverse effect on patency.

CONCLUSION

The clinical characteristics of the groups may explain some of the outcome differences. Angioplasty is recommended to be used in the femoropopliteal arteries if the symptoms are severe and in CLI group with diabetes and renal failure only in selected cases.

Prospective comparison of arm veins and greater saphenous veins as infrageniculate bypass grafts

OBJECTIVES

to compare arm and saphenous veins for infrageniculate bypass grafting.

DESIGN

prospective non-randomised study.

MATERIALS

two hundred patients, of which 197 had ischaemic tissue loss or rest pain.

METHODS

two hundred and eleven infrageniculate vein bypass procedures using 176 greater saphenous veins and 35 arm veins.

RESULTS

the cumulative primary graft patency rate at 1-month and 2 years was 80% and 61% for saphenous vein and 89% and 42% for arm vein. The corresponding rates for secondary patency were 84.5% and 68%, and 91% and 57%, respectively. These results corresponded to a relative risk of secondary failure of 1.53 (95% CI 0.71, 3.31) for arm vein grafts. In subgroup analyses, this estimate was 0.93 and 2.1 for primary vs secondary bypasses and 0.38 and 2.06 for single-vein vs spliced-vein bypasses. Among arm veins, cephalic vein grafts performed better than basilic vein grafts. Early mortality was 14% for arm vein and 10% for saphenous vein.

CONCLUSION

in the setting of infrageniculate bypass grafting, arm vein grafts are not equivalent to greater saphenous vein grafts, but contribute importantly to a policy of using autologous veins. The possibility of equivalence remains for the arm vein graft that uses a cephalic vein or is a primary procedure.

Outcome events in patients with claudication: a 15-year study in 2777 patients

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to delineate the natural history of claudication and determine risk factors for death.

METHODS

We reviewed the key outcomes (death, revascularization, amputation) in 2777 male patients with claudication identified over 15 years at a Veterans Administration hospital with both clinical and noninvasive criteria. Patients with rest pain or ulcers were excluded. Data were analyzed with life-table and Cox hazard models.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 47 months. The cohort exhibited a mortality rate of 12% per year, which was significantly (P <.05) more than the age-adjusted US male population. Among the deaths in which the cause was known, 66% were due to heart disease. We examined several baseline risk factors in a multivariate Cox model. Four were significant (P <.01) independent predictors of death: older age (relative risk [RR] = 1.3 per decade), lower ankle-brachial index (RR = 1.2 for 0.2 change), diabetes requiring medication (RR = 1.4), and stroke (RR = 1.4). The model can be used to estimate the mortality rate for specific patients. Surprisingly, a history of angina and myocardial infarction was not a significant predictor. Major and minor amputations had a 10-year cumulative rate less than 10%. Revascularization procedures occurred with a 10-year cumulative rate of 18%.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a high mortality rate in this large cohort and four independent risk factors that have a large impact on survival. Risk stratification with our model may be useful in determining an overall therapeutic plan for claudicants. A history of angina and myocardial infarction was not a useful predictor of death, suggesting that many patients in our cohort presented with claudication before having coronary artery symptoms. Our data also indicate that claudicants have a low risk of major amputation at 10-year follow-up.

Causes of late mortality in patients with disabling intermittent claudication

The long-term prognosis of patients suffering from intermittent ischemic claudication is reportedly worse than that of the normal population. The outcome of patients with ischemic claudication admitted to hospital was reviewed retrospectively to identify the causes of late death. The cumulative survival rates for patients with claudication were 94.6% at 1 year, 79.4% at 3 years, 67.3% at 5 years and 37.4% at 10 years. The 3 major causes of death, that is, ischemic heart disease, malignancy, and cerebrovascular accident, were equally common. The younger patients tended to die of ischemic heart disease, whereas the older patients died of cerebrovascular accidents. Malignancies caused a similar number of late deaths in all age groups. These results suggest that specific care should be given to patients with intermittent claudication based on the age-related causes of death.