If a pronounced vascular insufficiency has been established or if endovascular treatment proves insufficient, an open procedure will be proposed.
An incision is made, for example in the groin, and the artery is exposed. The artery is opened and the existing calcium plaque is removed. The blood vessel is then closed with a piece of plastic to prevent further narrowing. You will stay in the hospital for about five days. After discharge, you must take it easy, but you can resume your daily activities.
If the artery is completely blocked over a long section, a bridging device may be proposed. A vein of your own or a plastic tube can be used for bridging. To sew this tube onto the artery, an incision will be made in the groin and one lower on the leg. You will be hospitalised for 1 to 2 weeks for recovery.
During the consultation, the doctor will point out the importance of a healthy lifestyle and sufficient exercise. When appropriate, we offer our patients supervised walking training with a physiotherapist. If necessary, smoking cessation counselling can also be provided. In addition, we will prescribe a light blood thinner and a cholesterol inhibitor.
After the operation, we provide further follow-up, since it has been shown that narrowing of arteries can recur in spite of adequate treatment.
