During infrainguinal arterial bypass, a blocked
artery below the knee is bypassed. Typically, the saphenous vein is used as the
donor conduit, but synthetic materials may be used in some cases.
Also
Known As:
- Arterial
bypass
- Vein surgery
Conditions
Treated with Infrainguinal Arterial Bypass:
Infrainguinal arterial bypass may be performed in
order to salvage a lower extremity from gangrene or ischemic leg pain. It may
also be utilized in cases of a claudicated leg artery.
Blood thinners are a non-surgical alternative to
infrainguinal arterial bypass. Below the knee amputation is a surgical
alternative to the procedure.
Anesthesia
with Infrainguinal Arterial Bypass:
Infrainguinal arterial bypass may be performed with
regional anesthesia. It can also be performed with general anesthesia, which
means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential
Complications from Infrainguinal Arterial Bypass:
Possible risks following infrainguinal arterial
bypass include heart attack, infection, respiratory failure, amputation,
failure of venous graft, respiratory failure, congestive heart failure and a
negative reaction to the anesthesia.