Abstract
Background : Graft failure is a significant problem following lower limb revascularisation. We hypothesised that the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a simple and inexpensive index of systemic inflammation, predicts graft failure.
Methods : Consecutive patients undergoing infra-inguinal bypass grafting were identified from a prospective database. All patients underwent routine graft surveillance using Duplex ultrasound. Potential predictors of graft failure (occlusion or ipsilateral amputation) were assessed in univariate and multivariate regression models.
Results : Of 126 patients, 79 had patent grafts at 1 year. The only independent predictor of graft failure was the postoperative NLR.
Conclusion : Post-operative NLR may be a simple, inexpensive means of focussing surveillance resources on patients at high-risk of graft failure. Its value needs to be confirmed in larger cohorts.
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Notes on contributors
P. Kullar
P. Kullar, M.R.c.S. Vascular Surgery Department, Box 201 cambridge university Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Hills Road cambridge cB2 0QQ united Kingdom E-mail: [email protected]