Experimental remarks on leg ischemia following popliteal artery injuries

Popliteal artery injuries are followed, in many cases, by amputation of the leg. Results after re-construction depend on the time of ischemia. In this experimental work 12 dogs with injury of the popliteal artery had a direct end to end anastomosis or an anastomosis using saphenous vein graft. Blood flow was checked by an electromagnetic flowmeter or ultrasounds, blood samples for Hb, oxyhaemoglobin saturation, Hct and ph were taken before and after operation. Changes in these values depend on the time elapsing between injury and re-establishment of circulation. Operative angiography was done in all dogs. Except in two dogs, no early or late thrombosis occurred. Three dogs required amputation. The outcome of the operation is related to the time elapsing between injury and restoration of circulation.