Abstract
BACKGROUND: The benefit of endovascular therapy (EVT) for chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) in patients aged ≥ 80 years (extremely elderly) is debated. This study compared outcomes between extremely elderly and younger elderly (60-79 years) patients. METHODS: In this retrospective study, 367 patients (133 ≥ 80y, 234 60-79y) undergoing EVT were analyzed. Propensity score matching balanced baseline characteristics. Primary endpoints were one-year major adverse limb events (MALEs) and mortality. Univariate Cox analysis identified MALE-associated factors. RESULTS: After matching, the ≥ 80y group had more complex lesions (longer occlusions, poorer runoff). Their one-year freedom from MALEs (44.721% vs 61.697%, p = 0.053) and freedom from mortality rates(77.191% vs 85.628%, p = 0.215) were lower. Univariate analysis indicated age ≥ 80y (HR = 1.55, 95% CI 1.01-2.38, P = 0.043) and TASC II C/D lesions (HR = 1.26, 95% CI 1.02-1.55, P = 0.035) increased MALE risk, while drug-coated balloons((HR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.56-0.85, P = 0.001). and Lipid lowering agents usage (HR = 0.59, 95% CI 0.36-0.98, P = 0.041) were protective. Postoperative psychiatric symptoms were more frequent in the ≥ 80y group. Critically, both groups showed significant and comparable improvements in pain scores and functional capacity after EVT. CONCLUSIONS: Despite higher risks, EVT meaningfully improves quality of life in extremely elderly CLTI patients. Treatment should not be denied based on age alone, but should be individualized considering the higher anatomical complexity.