The possibility of distal embolization from a femoral-popliteal prosthesis above the knee. A consideration against its routine use in this position
S. G. Friedman and K. V. Krishnasastry
Department of Surgery, North Shore University Hospital, Manhusset, NY.
The preferential use of a synthetic arterial graft in the above-knee
femoral-popliteal position is advocated by many surgeons for a variety of
reasons. Our recent experience with three cases of substantial
deterioration of runoff vessels within a brief period, which may have
resulted from embolization from such a conduit, is presented along with
other arguments against the routine use of a prosthesis in this position.
The procedure with the best possible outcome, namely, one utilizing
autogenous vein, should be performed at the outset in all patients except
those with a limited life expectancy or those in whom a lengthy procedure
would be hazardous.