Chemical lumbar sympathectomy in patients with severe lower limb ischaemia.
Over a 13 year period, 544 chemical lumbar sympathetic blocks with phenol in 489 patients were performed by the author with the aid of X-ray image intensification. There was objective and subjective improvement in the signs and symptoms of limb ischaemia in 72%, judged by relief of rest pain, improvement in skin blood flow or healing of ischaemic ulcers. Of patients treated in the years 1990-1993, 44% had suffered either death or major amputation within two years of their treatment. Three serious and probably avoidable complications are described.
Alexander
J P
JP
Department of Clinical Anaesthesia, Belfast City Hospital.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007511:Ischemia / Q000628:therapy*; D007866:Leg / Q000098:blood supply*; D008161:Lumbosacral Region; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009660:Northern Ireland; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013563:Sympathectomy, Chemical / Q000009:adverse effects; D016896:Treatment Outcome