Is infrapopliteal bypass compromised by distal origin of the proximal anastomosis?

Distal origination of the proximal anastomosis (DOPA) of an infrapopliteal bypass beyond the adductor hiatus minimizes the length of graft required and optimizes use of scarce autogenous conduit. Sixty-two DOPA infrapopliteal revascularizations using autogenous vein performed for limb salvage over a 7-year period were reviewed and compared with 203 concurrent infrapopliteal bypasses originating more proximally (POPA). Life-table analysis revealed no difference at 54 months between DOPA and POPA bypass with regard to primary patency (57% vs. 50%, respectively) or secondary patency (67% vs. 65%, respectively). Differences in limb salvage at 54 months between DOPA and POPA bypasses did not reach statistical significance (53% vs. 66%, p = 0.12), although DOPA fared worse. Inferior limb salvage results in all infrapopliteal bypasses were correlated with the presence of tissue necrosis (52% vs. 70%, p < 0.001), which was more prevalent in patients undergoing DOPA bypass (71% vs. 49%, p < 0.01). The long-term patency of infrapopliteal bypass appears only marginally affected by DOPA. However, the prognosis for limb salvage in this setting is compromised as a result of the virulent behavior of the atherosclerotic disease that spares the superficial femoral artery while predominantly involving the popliteal and tibial vessels.