Question

What are the risks for leg bypass surgery? Is this a very serious operation? My mother-in-law, who is 81, is having this done next week.

She lives in Wisconsin and we live in Arizona. and we'd like to know if we should get there as soon as possible.
 

Answer

Partial blockage of leg arteries results from poor circulation of blood due to atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis, or blockage of arteries, can occur for many reasons such as smoking, diabetes, and high cholesterol. The blockage produces an aching, tired, and sometimes burning pain in the legs that is brought on by exercise, and relieved by rest. Claudication is the term that refers to the limping that occurs from leg cramps. Intermittent claudication may occur in both legs, and it often continues to worsen over time. However, some people complain only of weakness in the legs when walking, or a feeling of "tiredness" in the buttocks.
 

Leg artery bypass surgery involves taking a vein from the body or an artificial vein to construct a bypass around a blocked main leg artery. If leg artery bypass surgery is needed, a vascular surgeon who specializes in problems of the blood vessels will perform the procedure. This surgery takes from one to three hours. General anesthesia is normally required. Anesthesia risks include allergic reactions to medication and problems breathing. Surgical risks always include bleeding and infection.
 

The surgery can restore blood supply to the lower leg and relieve leg pain caused by the clogged artery. This procedure can also prevent the need for amputation of part of the leg because of poor blood supply.
 

The links below may be helpful to you in learning more about your problem.

Related Links
Franciscan Health System: Leg Artery Bypass Surgery
WebMD: Femoropopliteal Bypass Surgery
WebMD: Tibioperoneal Bypass Surgery