Lateral Routed Extraanatomic Infrainguinal Bypass Grafts

Abstract

Infrainguinal bypass grafts are traditionally routed along the medial aspect of the lower extremity. In the presence of medial scarring, open wounds, or infection, an alternative routing may be necessary in order to safely revascularize the ischemic limb. Subcutaneous lateral routing of an infrainguinal bypass graft can be a useful alternative to conventional medial routing. We review the available literature on this topic and discuss the current indications and techniques for the lateral exposure of the infrainguinal vessels, as well as the techniques and pitfalls for lateral extraanatomic routing of lower extremity infrainguinal bypass grafts.