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Obesity as a risk factor in major reconstructive vascular surgery
M L Nicholson1, M J Dennis, G S Makin
1University Hospital, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham, U.K.
European Journal of Vascular Surgery
|March 1, 1994
Summary
Major vascular reconstructions are safe for overweight and obese patients, despite increased risks of wound and chest infections. Graft patency and limb salvage rates remain unaffected by body mass index (BMI).
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Surgical Outcomes
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Body Mass Index (BMI) is a key factor in surgical risk assessment.
- Obesity is increasingly prevalent among patients undergoing major surgical procedures.
- Understanding the impact of BMI on vascular reconstruction outcomes is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and outcomes of major vascular reconstructions in patients stratified by BMI.
- To compare complication rates, in-patient stay, and graft patency between normal weight, overweight, and obese patients.
Main Methods:
- Prospective analysis of 150 consecutive major vascular reconstructions.
- Patients categorized into normal weight (NW), overweight (OW), and obese (OB) based on BMI.
- Comparison of wound infections, dehiscence, chest infections, in-patient stay, graft patency, and mortality rates across BMI groups.
Main Results:
- Overweight and obese patients had higher rates of wound infections and dehiscence compared to normal weight patients.
- Obese patients experienced more chest infections and significantly longer in-patient stays.
- No significant differences were observed in major complications, operative mortality, early graft patency, or limb salvage rates.
Conclusions:
- Major vascular reconstructions can be performed safely in overweight and obese individuals.
- While infective complications are more frequent in higher BMI groups, overall surgical outcomes are comparable.
- BMI should not be an absolute contraindication for major vascular reconstruction.