Atherosclerotic occlusive arterial disease of the lower limbs: a historical account of surgical evolution and vascular reconstruction over thirty four years

This is a descriptive study of chronic ischaemia of the lower limb caused by atherosclerotic disease in 588 patients. The study was performed over 34 years in a tertiary clinic in the central province of Sri Lanka. It was found that the pattern of occlusions were similar to that of other reports on western patients. However, critical ischaemia was seen in 57% of Sri Lankan patients, suggesting a more florid disease. Pioneering efforts of reconstructive surgery in 278 patients and in-hospital results are presented.