Endovascular treatment of chronic lower limb ischemia - the first experience of consecutive patients in the Kyrgyz Republic

Abstract

Objective: Pure atherosclerosis and diabetes mellitus are often responsible for the lesion of lower limb arteries. As a result, critical ischemia may develop. Endovascular treatment of lower extremities chronic ischemia in the modern world one of the most effective methods of limbs salvage. This report is an analysis of the first experience of endovascular treatment in consecutive patients with chronic lower limb ischemia in the Kyrgyz Republic. Methods: In 2016-2018, there were 31 patients with chronic lower limb ischemia in IIb-IV Fontaine's stages who underwent endovascular treatment. The primary endpoint was 6-month painlessness or reduction of the Fontaine stage; freedom from amputation up to six months; active regenerative process or full recovery of ulcers/wounds up to six months. The secondary endpoints included 6-month all-cause mortality and reintervention rate. Results: Overall, 27 (87.1%) patients reached painless form (stage I according to Fontaine (ABI ≥0.9)), with complete regeneration or active reparative process observed in 20 (64. 5%) patients. In general, major amputation was avoided in 29 (93.5%) patients (two patients underwent amputation by E. Burgess). Minor amputations were performed below the level of foot dorsum (Sharp) in 35.5% (11 patients). Simultaneous percutaneous coronary interventions and peripheral interventions were performed in 6 (19. 4%) cases. In total, within 6 months one death was registered (3.2%). Conclusion: The first endovascular treatment of consecutive patients showed encouraging 6-month results. Simultaneous («Ad-hoc») or stepwise (at the current hospitalization) procedures on coronary and peripheral arteries ensure safety and can provide more chances of patient`s survival.