Saphenous Vein Bypass Graft
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In arterial bypass surgery, a vein from your leg or arm may be used to bypass (go around) the blockage or replace the aneurysm section of the artery due to arterial disease.
Surgery may involve:
The removal of the vein from the leg is not harmful since most of the blood flows through the deep veins back to the heart. It is the same vein often removed in varicose vein surgery.
If a vein cannot be used for the bypass, a synthetic (man-made) graft is used. Synthetic grafts are not rejected by the body but they can become infected.
Arterial bypass surgery takes about three to four hours under general anesthesia.
There is some risk with every operation. The risk varies with each person, depending on the artery disease and the type of surgery. Although rare, bleeding, blockage of the bypass graft, severe leg swelling, infection and heart problems may occur after surgery. These problems may require more surgery. Your surgeon will discuss the benefits and risks of your surgery.
Surgery is sometimes postponed due to another patient needing emergency surgery, or if you develop a fever, sore throat or cold. You are told of any delay as soon as possible. Surgery is postponed only when absolutely necessary.
Northwestern Memorial Hospital is affiliated with Northwestern University Medical School, which is involved in a variety of research studies. If you are asked to take part in one of these studies, the decision is yours. Please ask your doctor if you have any questions.
Arterial Bypass Surgery
Before the Surgery
Day of the Surgery
After the Surgery
Taking Care after Surgery
Review Date: 01/05
