Lumbar Sympathectomy for Peripheral Arteriosclerosis

Abstract

Lumbar sympathectomy as treatment for obliterative arteriosclerosis of the legs has developed in accordance with better understanding of the physiology of the collateral circulation. Its importance is demonstrated by the results observed in 44 extremities followed postoperatively up to 14 years. The indications for sympathectomy and method of case selection are discussed at length. As experience has broadened, more advanced cases have been operated on, and good results have been obtained.