title: The possibility of distal embolization from a femoral-popliteal prosthesis above the knee. A consideration against its routine use in this position.
abstract: The preferential use of a synthetic arterial graft in the above-knee femoral-popliteal position is advocated by many surgeons for a variety of reasons. Our recent experience with three cases of substantial deterioration of runoff vessels within a brief period, which may have resulted from embolization from such a conduit, is presented along with other arguments against the routine use of a prosthesis in this position. The procedure with the best possible outcome, namely, one utilizing autogenous vein, should be performed at the outset in all patients except those with a limited life expectancy or those in whom a lengthy procedure would be hazardous.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, North Shore University Hospital, Manhusset, NY.
authors.forename: S G
authors.initials: SG
authors.lastname: Friedman
authors.forename: K V
authors.initials: KV
authors.lastname: Krishnasastry
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001807:Blood Vessel Prosthesis / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004617:Embolism / Q000209:etiology*; D005263:Femoral Artery / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011150:Popliteal Artery / Q000601:surgery*