The femoral artery is one of the major blood vessels that is responsible for carrying blood from the heart to the lower extremities. In some cases, this artery may become blocked or damaged due to various medical conditions, such as peripheral artery disease (PAD) or atherosclerosis. In such cases, a femoral arterial graft (bypass) surgery may be recommended to restore blood flow to the affected area.
A femoral arterial graft surgery involves taking a blood vessel from another part of the body, usually the thigh or leg, and using it to bypass the blocked or damaged area of the femoral artery. The blood vessel is then sewn into place, creating a new passage for blood to flow through.
Although this surgery is generally successful, there is a risk of the femoral arterial graft breaking down. This can occur for several reasons, including:
Some common signs and symptoms of a breakdown of a femoral arterial graft include:
If you experience any of these symptoms after undergoing a femoral arterial graft surgery, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Your doctor may recommend additional tests or procedures to determine the cause of the breakdown and to provide appropriate treatment.
In conclusion, femoral arterial graft surgery is a common procedure that can help restore blood flow to the lower extremities. While the risk of graft breakdown is relatively low, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms and to seek medical attention if necessary.