In discussing risk and outcomes of the patient in the previous question, the following is/are true:

a. If renal failure occurs, the mortality rate is about 50%

b. If arterial embolism is confirmed, the patient should receive lifelong anticoagulation

There has been only modest improvement in the mortality and morbidity after arterial embolectomy in the past 40 years, and if renal failure occurs, the mortality rate is about 50%. Recurrence of arterial embolism without anticoagulation occurs in 28–45% of patients and justifies prolonged anticoagulation which reduces the incidence of recurrent embolism. In addition to a high postoperative mortality rate, amputations are required in about 15% of patients. Pulmonary embolism is the 2nd most common cause of death after embolectomy, reflecting the incidence of DVT in 7–27% of patients after arterial embolectomy.