ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Stabilized human umbilical vein (SHUV) is one of several graft materials that may be used when autogenous saphenous vein is absent or inadequate, or when a shortened anesthesia time is deemed necessary. 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 according 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 for bypasses performed for claudication were superior to those performed for limb-salvage but achieved statistical significance at 1 and 3 years only. Early patency rates for nondiabetic patients were superior to those in patients with diabetes, but did not achieve statistical significance. The incidence of infection was 3%, and the incidence of aneurysm formation was 3.3%. CONCLUSION: SHUV is an acceptable alternative for femoropopliteal bypass when autogenous saphenous vein is inadequate or unavailable.
