Background: Raised plasma fibrinogen levels and markers of fibrin turnover or endothelial disturbance are associated with cardiovascular disease.
Methods: This is a critical review of the English language literature relating to fibrinogen, fibrin degradation products and endothelial products in peripheral arterial disease and revascularization surgery.
Results and conclusion: Altered levels of plasma fibrinogen and endothelial products are associated with atherosclerosis and some studies have shown an association with poor outcome following revascularization surgery. Randomized clinical trials of therapies that modify thrombotic pathways in patients undergoing surgery for peripheral arterial occlusive disease are therefore required.