Aim: To evaluate the role of crossover bypasses in the treatment of the lower extremity ischemia.
Methods: A retrospective study (1978-1997) included 51 patients with 52 femoro- or iliofemoral crossover bypasses. The most frequent indication for crossover bypass was unilateral thrombotic occlusion of the bifurcated graft or unilateral pelvic occlusion (49.0%) and the rest pain (40.4%). The main type of crossover reconstruction was "U" shaped, subcutaneous femorofemoral bypass. The first, third, and fifth year primary patency rates were evaluated using the life table analysis method.
Results: The cumulative patency rates were 91.3%, 73.9%, and 54.5% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. Limb amputation had to be performed in five (9.6%) failed reconstructions. In four (7.7%) cases, thrombosis of reconstruction, and in one (1.9%) case, graft infection, caused the bypass occlusion. One patient (1.9%) died within 30 days after surgery from an acute myocardial attack.
Conclusion: Crossover bypass is an attractive method because of its technical simplicity, low morbidity, and good long-term results.