Conservative Treatment in Selected Patients with Severe Critical Limb Ischemia

Abstract

Objective: To assess the outcome of conservative treatment of severe critical limb ischemia (CLI) classified as Rutherford 5/6.

Background: The preferred therapy for CLI is either endovascular revascularization or bypass surgery. With a growing aged population with more serious comorbidities, these therapies are not always a viable option. Primary amputation leads to decreased mobility and a reduced quality of life. There is a lack of literature regarding the outcome of conservative therapy.

Methods: Hospital charts were reviewed of all patients who were diagnosed with Rutherford classification 5-6 and received conservative treatment and lacked interventional options. Outcome measures were mortality, complete wound closure, and limb salvage rate.

Results: 38 patients were included with a median age of 80 years (range 57-97). The amputation rate during follow-up was 16%. In 58% of patients, complete wound closure was achieved. All-cause mortality was 58% with a 2-year survivability rate of 55%.

Conclusions: Conservative management in our selected patients with CLI results in a moderate rate of wound closure and acceptable amputation rates albeit with a high mortality rate. For patients not eligible for endovascular revascularization or bypass surgery, conservative treatment could be a viable option besides primary limb amputation.