Endarterectomy for Segmental Occlusive Disease of the Superficial Femoral Artery

Abstract

• Endarterectomy for segmental disease is a reliable method for restoring the continuity of the superficial femoral artery (SFA). Operative morbidity was negligible and mortality absent. Long-term patency compares favorably with that of femoropopliteal saphenous vein grafts. The purpose of segmental endarterectomy is to restore arterial continuity, which hopefully will prevent major occlusions of the SFA. To maintain the integrity of the SFA, however, frequent interval examination and repeated arteriography are indicated as segmental disease tends to recur. Relief of intermittent claudication is a major event in the patient's life-style, and this technique of restoring arterial continuity while preserving the greater saphenous vein is a concept worthy of consideration. (Arch Surg 1981;116:1547-1553)