Endarterectomy for segmental occlusive disease of the superficial femoral artery
T. Inahara and C. M. Scott
Endarterectomy for segmental disease is a reliable method for restoring the
continuity of the superficial femoral artery (SFA). Operative morbidity was
negligible and mortality absent. Long-term patency compares favorably with
that of femoropopliteal saphenous vein grafts. The purpose of segmental
endarterectomy is to restore arterial continuity, which hopefully will
prevent major occlusions of the SFA. To maintain the integrity of the SFA,
however, frequent interval examination and repeated arteriography are
indicated as segmental disease tends to recur. Relief of intermittent
claudication is a major event in the patient's life-style, and this
technique of restoring arterial continuity while preserving the greater
saphenous vein is a concept worthy of consideration.
