Intestinal PAD bypass surgery

Overview

A surgical bypass involves redirecting blood flow around a blocked blood vessel by creating a new pathway for circulation through the use of a graft.

Reason for undergoing the procedure

The treatment goal is to redirect blood flow in the artery, bypassing blockages caused by plaque accumulation within the artery walls. These blockages prevent blood from nourishing the tissues of the gastrointestinal system, including the intestines. Acute mesenteric ischemia is a critical condition, whereas chronic mesenteric ischemia typically results in abdominal pain post-meals, with its symptoms progressively worsening over time. This condition can lead to significant weight loss and marked alterations in dietary patterns. Treatment plans are tailored to meet the individual needs of each patient.

Risk

Your doctor will discuss the specific risks and benefits of the recommended bypass surgery with you. While the procedure typically has few complications, there’s a potential for injury to the blood vessel and the development of a hernia at the incision site. Post-surgery, the return of normal bowel function might be delayed, leading to an inability to eat for several days. As with all surgeries, post-operative effects can include fatigue for a few weeks, mild pain at the incision site, and some patients may experience abdominal cramps, intermittent constipation, and diarrhea for a short period.

Procedure

During your consultation with your physician, we encourage you to inquire thoroughly to ensure a comprehensive understanding of both the risks associated with the procedure and the rationale behind the recommendation for the procedure. The surgical bypass will be conducted while you are under general anesthesia.

Before the procedure

Your physician will engage in a comprehensive discussion with you pertaining to the specific risks and potential benefits associated with the recommended procedure. In the days preceding the procedure, pre-procedure assessments may be conducted to ensure its safety and suitability. It may also be necessary to discontinue specific medications before the procedure. Your healthcare team will furnish you with precise, professional instructions to facilitate your preparation for the forthcoming procedure.

During the procedure

Under general anesthesia, the surgical bypass procedure involves creating a small opening below the affected artery blockage. A graft, either sourced from one of your veins or a synthetic tube, is then placed in this opening. The surgeon connects the graft above and below the blockage to facilitate the diversion of blood around the obstructed area. Following the surgery, most patients typically require standard admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) for approximately one to two days to ensure close monitoring.

After the procedure

Following the patient’s transfer to the nursing unit, the hospital stay typically extends from three to seven additional days. During the recovery phase, most individuals will undergo physical therapy. It’s important to note that post-surgery, you may experience fatigue for a few weeks and encounter mild pain around the incision areas. Some patients may also encounter cramps, abdominal discomfort, and occasional constipation or diarrhea during this period. Generally, patients are initially admitted to an intensive care unit for close monitoring for a duration of one to two days before transitioning to the nursing unit. Specific recovery guidelines will be provided by your doctor.

Outcome

Surgically bypassing to restore blood flow typically offers effective symptom relief. Patients with ischemia are advised to follow a low-fat diet and opt for small, frequent meals. Additionally, it’s recommended to incorporate regular exercise into one’s routine and actively manage blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes.