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Abstract

Objective
To compare the results of surgical intervention in early versus late presenters with acute limb ischemia.
Study design
Cross sectional study.
Place & Duration of study•
Study was conducted in surgical units of Bahawal Victoria Hospital Bahawalpur, from February 2020 to February 2022.
Methodology
All patients who presented with acute limb ischemia were included. Those with established gangrene of the limb were excluded. Patients were divided into two groups; Early (Group A) who presented within 24-hours of onset of symptoms and Late (Group B) who presented after 24-hours of initial symptoms. Surgical embolectomy / thrombectomy were done in all patients. Data were recorded on a predesigned form and analysed by using SPSS version 20.
Results
Total of 55 patients were included, 19 in early and 36 in late group. All patients included in the study underwent a surgical procedure. The number of additional surgeries and reoperation was more common in late group but there was no statistical significant difference between the two. Hospitals stay in group A was 8.47±3.1 days and in group B 12.6±5.69 days. This was statistically significant (p=0.028). Postoperative complications were more common in group B but there was no statistical significance.
Conclusion
Patient presenting with acute limb ischemia before established gangrene are benefitted by intervention (embolectomy).
Key words
Embolectomy, Fasciotomy, Gangrene, Amputation, Acute limb ischemia.