[Arterialization of the great saphenous vein for treating severe ischemia of lower limbs].

This study was to observe the result in patients suffering from severe ischemia of legs with arterialization of the great saphenous vein. Eighty nine patients suffering from the disease were treated by bridging the autogenous cephalic vein or Gore-Tex artificial vessel between the great saphenous vein and the femoral or external iliac arteries. The results showed that the blood supply of the affected legs was increased immediately after operation. The ulcers of the toes and the plantar areas were healed gradually and the pain relieved. It was concluded that this method did not interfere with the reflux of the venous blood in the diseased limbs. This method was simple, safe and effective for treating severe ischemia of the lower limbs.