Long-term results of femoroinfrapopliteal bypass in diabetic patients with severe ischemia of the lower extremity.
In patients with severe lower extremity ischemia (ischemic necrosis or pain at rest associated with physical findings of peripheral arterial insufficiency), diabetes mellitus should not deter thorough arteriography and consideration of arterial reconstruction. Infrapopliteal bypass can produce prolonged limb salvage in diabetic patients in lieu of primary amputation.