[Follow-up in femoral artery embolectomy]

The results of 112 femoral embolectomies performed on 100 patients were reviewed. Operative mortality rate was 15% and early amputation (within 30 day-after the procedure) 18%. The role of early amputation was closely related to the time of leg ischemia. Current follow-up as established for 86 patients. 5 years and 10 years survival rates for the group were 49% and 40%. Although early survival is decreased after femoral embolectomy long term survivors can be expected to live independently with excellent limb salvage and function.