The Outcome of the Axillofemoral Bypass: A Retrospective Analysis of 45 Patients

Purpose This study was designed to retrospectively analyze outcomes of axillofemoral bypass (AxFB) operations performed in patients with severe comorbidities. Methods All patients ( n = 45) who received an AxFB between 1990 and 2005 for aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD, n = 35) or infectious aortic disease (IAD, n = 10) were included. Information on patency of the bypass and mortality was retrieved from patient records. A Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed to illustrate survival rates, limb salvage, and primary and secondary patency. Results Included patients had several comorbidities and a high operative risk. In this group, a 30‐day mortality rate of 20% was found: 17% for the AIOD group, and 30% for the IAD group. During 5‐year follow‐up 20 patients died, of which 15 during the first year after operation. Survival rates were at 64 and 41% at 1 and 5 years and limb salvage rates were 84% for both these years. Primary patency rates at 1 and 5 years were 72 and 58%, respectively, and secondary patency rates were 86% at both time points. Conclusions High mortality rates were found in AIOD or IAD patients who received an AxFB. However, for high‐risk patients with an already reduced life expectancy, the AxFB remains an alternative with acceptable patency rates.