Femoral Popliteal Bypass Surgery

Overview

Femoral Popliteal Bypass Surgery also known as fem pop bypass, is a surgical procedure designed to treat blockages or narrowing in the femoral artery, a major artery in the leg. This blockage can lead to poor blood flow to the lower limbs, causing pain and potentially leading to tissue damage. The surgery aims to restore blood flow by creating a bypass around the blocked area using a graft often from another blood vessel or synthetic material.

Why Femoral Popliteal Bypass Surgery Treatment is Required?

Narrowing or blockage of the femoral artery reduces blood flow to the leg and foot.

This leads to symptoms like pain, cramping and poor circulation in the leg.

When lifestyle changes or medication do not alleviate the symptoms and surgery may be necessary.

Prevents severe complications like tissue damage or amputation due to poor blood circulation.

Key Advantages of Femoral Popliteal Bypass Surgery Treatment

Restores blood flow to the leg, reducing pain and preventing further damage.

Improves mobility and quality of life by reducing symptoms and improving circulation.

Prevents tissue damage by promoting healthy blood flow to the legs.

Minimally invasive options are available allowing for quicker recovery times.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Taking Femoral Popliteal Bypass Surgery Treatment?

Consult with your doctor to understand the risks, benefits and options for your condition.

Stop smoking and make necessary lifestyle changes to improve circulation.

Follow a healthy diet and take prescribed medications as advised by your healthcare provider.

Inform your surgeon about any allergies, medical conditions or medications you are currently taking.

Arrange for post surgery care, including assistance at home during recovery.

How Femoral Popliteal Bypass Surgery Treatment is Performed?

The procedure is done under general anesthesia to ensure you are asleep and pain free during surgery.

The surgeon makes an incision near the femoral artery to access the blockage.

A graft from another blood vessel or synthetic material is connected above and below the blockage creating a bypass to restore blood flow.

The procedure typically lasts between 2 to 4 hours.

What You Can Expect Before Procedure, During Procedure, and After Procedure?

1. Before Procedure:

Follow pre surgery instructions such as fasting and taking prescribed medications.

Discuss any concerns or questions with your healthcare team.

2. During Procedure:

You will be under general anesthesia and will not feel pain during the surgery.

The surgery typically takes 2 to 4 hours.

3. After Procedure:

You will be monitored in the hospital for a few days.

Most patients can resume normal activities within 4 to 6 weeks of recovery.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Infection: There is a risk of infection at the surgical site.
• Excessive bleeding: Some bleeding may occur during or after surgery.
• Graft failure: In rare cases the graft may not work properly leading to further blockages.
• Blood clots: These can form in the leg requiring additional treatment.

Nerve damage or wound complications may occur though they are rare.

Results/Outcomes

Most patients experience improved blood flow to the leg leading to less pain and better mobility.

The femoral popliteal bypass surgery effectively reduces the risk of tissue damage, ulcers or gangrene.

Recovery times vary but most patients can return to daily activities within a few weeks.

The surgery is highly effective in treating leg artery blockages and improving the quality of life.