extra-anatomic vascular bypass


extra-anatomic vascular bypass

Surgical revascularization for peripheral vascular disease of the limbs, using a prosthetic graft (e.g., axillofemorally or femorofemorally) to divert blood to a site distal to an arterial obstruction.

Patient care

Postoperatively, it is important to monitor the patient's vital signs for changes, esp. of pulse and rhythm, and to assess the patient for symptoms of angina pectoris or arrhythmias. Cardiac monitoring and frequent ECGs are routine aspects of care. The surgical wound is checked for bleeding or hematoma formation, or signs of infection or dehiscence. Peripheral pulses are palpated using a doppler, if necessary, to determine peripheral perfusion.

See also: bypass