Late Results after Thrombectomy for Ilio-Femoral Venous Thrombosis

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Abstract
Sixty-three of 68 patients who underwent thrombectomy with a temporary arteriovenous fistula for ilio-femoral venous thrombosis were followed-up after a mean time of 66 months (range 15–130). Fifty-four were women with a mean age of 29 years (range 13–66). A primary successful operation was performed in 54 patients (86%); at 16 months 34 (54%) were judged to have a patent ilac vein. At long-term follow-up 23 patients had no symptoms, 17 had leg swelling, venous claudication and/or present or previous ulcer while 23 had leg swelling only. Fourteen (22%) had noticed a decreased capacity to perform their job and 21 (33%) had to compensate daily for the discomfort of the diseased leg. Recurrent thrombotic disease occurred in eight patients and did not seem to be associated with symptoms at follow-up. The results of the operated patients seem to be favourable compared to other reports of conservative treatment, especially for fertile women and with a reduced risk of future venous insufficiency. In young patients with a long life expectancy this is particularly important.