Treatment of reperfusion syndrome and lymphorrhea in patients after arterial reconstructions on the lower extremities

Introduction. Obliterating atherosclerosis of the lower extremity arteries is a major cardiovascular disease, significantly impacting patients' quality of life. Arterial reconstructions, while restoring blood flow to ischemic tissues, often trigger reperfusion syndrome, characterized by limb edema and lymphorrhea from postoperative wounds. These complications prolong recovery and increase hospitalization time. Purpose. To evaluate the clinical efficacy of a modified approach for managing reperfusion syndrome and lymphorrhea in patients with chronic lower extremity ischemia following arterial reconstructive surgery. Materials and methods. The study included 316 patients with lower extremity atherosclerosis treated at the Ulyanovsk Regional Clinical Hospital (2023–2024). Of these, 23 (7,3 %) developed postoperative lymphorrhea and were divided into two groups: Group I 12 (3,8 %) patients received standard postoperative care. Group II 11 (3,5 %) patients underwent a modified treatment protocol for reperfusion syndrome and lymphorrhea. Results and Discussion. Ultrasound analysis of soft tissues revealed: Group I: Increased interfascial edema by day 7. Group II: Reduced interfascial edema. The average duration of lymphorrhea was: Group I: 15,1 ± 7,5 days. Group II: 8,1 ± 1,9 days. Conclusion. The modified treatment method effectively reduced postoperative complications, shortening hospital stays for patients undergoing lower extremity arterial reconstructions. This highlights its potential for improving postoperative outcomes.