[Differences in the prognosis of arterial reconstruction in stage II and IV peripheral arterial disease. Results of a minimum of 15 to 25 years follow-up].

The results of 1051 extremities, operated for peripheral vascular disease are presented. The follow-up was at least 15 years, the longest 29 years. 778 extremities underwent surgery for intermittent claudication, 273 for rest pain or necrosis. The overall results are acceptable and encourage the indication for reconstruction even in intermittent claudication in patients over 50-years-old. The two groups of extremities were compared as to patency rate, reocclusion, amputation rate and mortality. It is of great interest that the great majority of patients dying in the follow-up have open reconstructions and have therefore taken advantage of surgery in being free of walking difficulties up to their death. Patients below 50 years with intermittent claudication should not be admitted to surgery, because the risk of amputation before death is great.