[Early results of acute non-traumatic ischemia of the limbs]

The results of therapy of 726 patients with the acute non-traumatic ischemia of the limbs are discussed. These patients were treated in the 11 centres of vascular surgery in Poland between 1986 and 1988. Out of causes of the acute non-traumatic ischemia of the limbs arterial embolism was diagnosed in 450 patients, thrombosis in 229 cases, and dissecting aneurysm in 8 patients as well as phlegmasia coerulea dolens in 1 patient Surgical treatment included 665 patients, and the remaining 383 patients were treated conservatively. The results of the conservative and surgical treatment were scored with a 5-point scale. Excellent results with the return of complete functioning of the affected limb and presence of peripheral pulse were achieved in 291 patients, positive result, i.e. lack of the peripheral pulse, in 197 cases, moderate result in 80 patients in whom complete functioning of the limb has not been restored. In case of 64 patients an amputaion proved necessary. Nine four patients died.