LONG-TERM RESULTS OF FEMOROPOPLITEAL BYPASS WITH STABILIZED HUMAN UMBILICAL VEIN

BACKGROUND: Stabilized human umbilical vein (SHUV) is one of several g raft materials that may be used when autogenous saphenous vein is abse nt or inadequate, or when a shortened anesthesia time is deemed necess ary. METHODS: Two hundred eleven consecutive femoropopliteal bypasses were used in 171 patients since 1977. Follow-up has been conducted at regular intervals since operation, and the results scrutinized accordi ng to operative indication, diabetic status, and the number of runoff vessels. RESULTS: Life-table cumulative rates were 70 +/- 3%, 45 +/- 4 %, and 26 +/- 5% at 1, 5, and 10 years, respectively. Patency rates fo r bypasses performed for claudication were superior to those performed for limb-salvage but achieved statistical significance at 1 and 3 yea rs only. Early patency rates for nondiabetic patients were superior to those in patients with diabetes, but did not achieve statistical sign ificance. The incidence of infection was 3%, and the incidence of aneu rysm formation was 3.3%. CONCLUSION: SHUV is an acceptable alternative for femoropopliteal bypass when autogenous saphenous vein is inadequa te or unavailable.