Background Heparin-bonded covered stent grafts (Viabahn) are used to treat femoropopliteal long-segment arteriosclerotic lesions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of Viabahn grafts with a covered stent length of minimum 25 cm. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients receiving a heparin-bonded stent graft in our clinic who met the length criteria between July 2010 and March 2018. Primary endpoints were patency rates, limb salvage and survival after five years. Secondary endpoint was the 30-day outcome including early complications. Results A total of 62 patients (45 male, median age 70.5 years) were included. The median arteriosclerotic lesion length was 25 cm (22.0–41.3 cm), the minimum covered stent length was 25 cm (25–46 cm). All lesions were TASC C and D lesions. The 30-day mortality was 0%, an early stent graft occlusion occurred in 8.1%. A major amputation was performed in 1.6%. Primary patency, primary assisted patency, secondary patency, limb salvage and survival were 38.5%, 45.7%, 52.4%, 92.8% and 68.9% after five years. Distal stent graft end below the femoral condyles and critical limb ischemia was associated with a significant decreased survival. The diameter of the stent had no influence on the outcome. Conclusion The Viabahn stent graft for long segment arteriosclerotic lesions is a feasible treatment with adequate long-term results.

The majority of patients with spontaneous retroperitoneal or rectus sheath hematomas are receiving anticoagulation. In this series, only 16% underwent intervention; but in other series, 20% to 40% of patients underwent surgery or endovascular treatment. I agree with the authors' findings. When patients are unstable or the hemoglobin level continues to drop, and especially if a CT scan shows active extravasation, we would recommend selective arteriography of feeding arteries, and if there is active extravasation, endovascular or surgical intervention should be performed. Otherwise, they usually stop on their own, especially if anticoagulation can be discontinued.