Functional outcome of critical limb ischemia

Results of treatment for critical limb ischemia have traditionally focused on physician-oriented end points related to limb salvage surgery. Although numerous studies have demonstrated excellent patency and limb salvage after surgical revascularization procedures, survival in this patient population is poor, comorbidities reducing quality of life are rampant, and recovery from limb salvage surgery can be prolonged and complicated despite "success" as defined by traditional reporting methods. Patient-oriented outcome end points, such as health- related quality of life and functional status, are essential in defining optimal treatment options for the population of patients with critical limb ischemia. This area of research remains in its infancy, but will become increasingly important as the population of patients with critical limb ischemia and treatment options for these patients continue to expand. The current status and future outlook of functional and quality of life assessment of patients with critical limb ischemia is reviewed.