The possibility of distal embolization from a femoral-popliteal prosthesis above the knee. A consideration against its routine use in this position.

Overview

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.