Stenoses in infrageniculate arteries proximal to a lower extremity vein graft may reduce flow velocity through the bypass graft and are thought to predispose to graft occlusion. Repair of these lesions has been recommended to preserve graft function. This study was undertaken to better define the natural history of grafts below inflow lesions and to evaluate the necessity of repair to preserve graft patency.
Incidentally detected stenoses proximal to grafts originating below the common femoral artery: do they affect graft patency or warrant repair in asymptomatic patients?
Division of Vascular Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, and the Salt Lake City Veterans Administration Medical Center, Salt Lake, Utah, USA.
