Bypass Surgery
When a blockage is encountered in an artery, the blood loses its direct path to an organ or extremity. In order to improve the circulation to the affected area, a new and direct pathway must be created. This rerouting of the blood is called a bypass. This procedure is performed only in cases of severe disease, and when more minimally invasive techniques or conservative management have failed.
A bypass can be constructed using either the patient’s own vein or a synthetic tube called a graft. Our surgeons will evaluate the areas of blockage and determine the best way to re-route the blood. The procedure typically involves general anesthesia and a series of incisions in the affected extremity. The recovery time varies depending on the extent of the bypass and any other medical conditions that the patient may have.
