Leg Ischemia Following Surgery for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

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Abstract
Resection of an abdominal aortic aneurysm was associated with intraoperative or postoperative leg ischemia in 7 of 100 consecutive survivors of this procedure. Distal embolization of thrombus and debris is the apparent cause in the majority of cases (6). One case of stenosis at a graft-to-vessel anastomosis was identified. Early (intraoperative) thromboembolectomy averted tissue loss in 4 cases. The role of concurrent lumbar sympathectomy in ameliorating ischemic tissue loss is evaluated. Postaneurysmectomy leg ischemia may accompany other serious complications, particularly hypotension and renal failure.