Bypass
Endovascular treatment is the preferred approach to problems in arteries. If an endovascular technique is not possible, a bypass is an alternative. An operation to create a bridge across an artery is often called a bypass. A bypass is a diversion around an artery that is narrowed or blocked.
In a bypass operation the blood flow is diverted using part of one of the patient’s own veins or a plastic prosthesis. The choice that is made depends on whether the patient has a good quality vein available to be used.
The procedure is done under a general or epidural anaesthetic (given via a needle in the back). The anaesthetist will talk to you to decide on this before the procedure.
The vascular surgeon will try to prevent wound infection, bleeding and thrombosis, but there is still a small risk. The possible risks will be discussed with you by the surgeon during a preoperative interview in the outpatient clinic.