Venous Crossover Bypass Grafts for Arterial Insufficiency

Abstract

The long saphenous vein placed subcutaneously was used for bypass grafting in 3 patients with cerebrovascular and peripheral vascular arterial insufficiency. The main advantage of subcutaneous grafting is avoidance of the increased hazard of thoracotomy and laparotomy in debilitated and poor-risk patients. Use of the saphenous vein in preference to synthetic material allows greater technical ease, diminished risk of infection, lessened likelihood of false aneurysm formation and increased tolerance to angulation in areas of increased mobility and flexion.