Role of intraoperative fibrinolytic therapy in acute arterial occlusion

Nineteen patients with acute onset of ischemia affecting the lower extremities were studied from January 1985 to March 1987. Patients with preoperative Doppler and angiographic studies consistent with arterial occlusions subsequently underwent a thromboembolectomy using a Fogarty catheter. All patients were given a bolus injection of 5,000 units of heparin intravenously at the start of the surgical procedure. In all patients studied, a clot was retrieved on the first pass, but after two additional passes, total distal blood flow was not shown to be restored on angiogram. Intraoperative angiograms showed distal emboli. All patients underwent intraoperative fibrinolytic therapy by local bolus infusion. Streptokinase, ranging from 50,000 to 200,000 units, was administered in 50,000 unit injections in ten to 15 minute intervals. Repeat attempts at thromboembolectomy with the Fogarty catheter resulted in an additional clot retrieved in all 19 patients with intraoperative angiographic, Doppler and clinical improvement. No perioperative or postoperative complications were observed, including anaphylactic reactions, uncontrollable bleeding or amputation. Four patients had nonacute femoropopliteal bypass operations within the next six months. Intraoperative fibrinolytic therapy can be a safe and effective adjunct in acute arterial embolic occlusion requiring balloon catheter thromboembolectomy.