[Retrograde intravenous perfusion as ultima ratio in potential amputation patients with peripheral arterial occlusive...

In 21 patients with critical ischemia and/or inflammation of the leg facing possible amputation, retrograde intravenous perfusion (RVP) was used to administer fibrinolytics, vasodilators and antibiotics. Amputation was avoided in 15 patients. In 4 patients, RVP was interrupted due to unsuitable veins for putting in cannulas. After introducing a 3-in-1-Block (Winnie) for analgesia, 7 courses of treatment at least were reached before unbearable pain became a reason for stopping therapy. RVP should, therefore, be considered as the last resort in the treatment of critical ischemia and/or inflammation of the leg of patients facing possible amputation.