The BASIL trial compared bypass surgery versus balloon angioplasty for severe limb ischaemia (CLI) due to infrainguinal disease. The key finding regarding survival at 2 years was:

• A Bypass surgery had superior amputation-free survival at 2 years for all patients
• B Angioplasty had superior outcomes with lower complication rates
• C Similar 2-year amputation-free survival; bypass superior in patients surviving >2 years ✓
• D Angioplasty should only be offered to patients with TASC A/B lesions

Explanation

BASIL trial showed similar amputation-free survival at 2 years between bypass and balloon angioplasty for CLI; however, among patients who survived >2 years, bypass surgery conferred a significant overall survival benefit. Angioplasty had fewer early complications and shorter hospital stay, making it preferred for patients with limited life expectancy. Bypass is preferred for patients with good vein conduit and >2-year life expectancy — this stratification guides current practice.

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.