The Outcome of the Axillofemoral Bypass: A Retrospective Analysis of 45 Patients

PURPOSE: This study was designed to retrospectively analyze outcomes of axillofemoral bypass (AxFB) operations performed in patients with severe comorbidities. METHODS: All patients (n = 45) who received an AxFB between 1990 and 2005 for aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD, n = 35) or infectious aortic disease (IAD, n = 10) were included. Information on patency of the bypass and mortality was retrieved from patient records. A Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed to illustrate survival rates, limb salvage, and primary and secondary patency. RESULTS: Included patients had several comorbidities and a high operative risk. In this group, a 30-day mortality rate of 20% was found: 17% for the AIOD group, and 30% for the IAD group. During 5-year follow-up 20 patients died, of which 15 during the first year after operation. Survival rates were at 64 and 41% at 1 and 5 years and limb salvage rates were 84% for both these years. Primary patency rates at 1 and 5 years were 72 and 58%, respectively, and secondary patency rates were 86% at both time points. CONCLUSIONS: High mortality rates were found in AIOD or IAD patients who received an AxFB. However, for high-risk patients with an already reduced life expectancy, the AxFB remains an alternative with acceptable patency rates.