Thromboembolectomy in geriatric patients from long-stay wards.
The results of arterial embolectomy with the Fogarty balloon catheter in patients over 70 years of age with acute ischaemia of the lower limbs were evaluated. Twenty-three geriatric patients from long-stay wards, median age 81 years, range 70-92, were compared with 45 independent patients, median age 81 years, range 70-91, living in their own homes. The period of ischaemic symptoms before admission was on average shorter for patients coming from long-stay wards, but the outcome was less successful. Recurrent occlusion during the first postoperative month took place in 12 patients (52%) from long-stay wards as compared to eight (18%) among independent patients (p < 0.01). The mortality was 35% and 18% respectively (p > 0.2). After six months, only 35% of patients from geriatric institutions were alive with a functional extremity as compared to 62% in the independent group (p > 0.01).
Hansen
C P
CP
Department of Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen.
Holtveg
H M
HM
Rasch
L
L
Holstein
P
P
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001157:Arterial Occlusive Diseases / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery*; D003718:Denmark; D017128:Embolectomy; D006701:Home Nursing; D006707:Homes for the Aged; D006801:Humans; D007511:Ischemia / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery; D007866:Leg / Q000098:blood supply*; D008134:Long-Term Care; D012008:Recurrence; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D015996:Survival Rate