Peripheral Arterial Disease Post OP Care

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) refers to blocks or damages of the arteries responsible for the delivery of blood throughout the body. It is usually associated with the legs, but can be found in other areas like the intestines, kidney or neck. The primary cause is hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis). Postoperative care for PAD depends on the type of surgery performed.

Bypass Surgeries

• Abdominal aortic surgery is used to bypass an aneurysm in the aorta. Mesenteric bypass reroutes blood in the arteries of the intestines. Femoropopliteal bypass redirects flow of the main thigh artery or the popliteal arteries behind the knee, while tibioperoneal bypass redirects that of the tibial arteries of the lower leg.

  Postoperative care for abdominal and mesenteric surgeries includes the temporary use of a gastrointestinal tube. One to three days will be spent in a hospital intensive care unit (ICU), followed by three to five days in standard care. Postoperative care for a femoropopliteal or tibioperoneal bypass only requires standard hospitalization for two to five days.

  Once released, some activities may be curtailed or stopped for three to six weeks. Showers are allowed but baths should not be taken until the surgical wound is healed. One or more follow-up checks with a doctor will be required.

Carotid Endarterectomy

• This procedure eliminates plaque from the carotid, which controls blood flow to the brain, in order to prevent stroke. Postoperative includes one to three days of hospitalization.

  Once released, certain activities will be curtailed or stopped for up to three weeks. Showers are allowed but baths are not until the surgical would is healed. One or more follow-up physician checks will be required. A blood-thinner or an aspirin regimen may be prescribed.

Stenting and Angioplasty

• A small stent is inserted in the carotid to prevent blockage. For angioplasty, a balloon is used to clear blockages in the legs. Renal angioplasty with stent combines the two procedures to clear a renal artery and ensure proper blood flow to the kidneys.

  Postoperative care for these minimally invasive surgeries requires at least an overnight hospital stay. Once released, normal activities are resumed within a week's time. Drinking water is important, however, to remove any dye that remains from the X-ray.

Lifestyle Changes

• Following surgery, there are lifestyle changes recommended. These include controlling blood pressure and diabetes; elimination of smoking; exercise and dietary changes.

  Smoking causes arterial constriction, resulting in damage that may start or escalate PAD. Exercise forces strengthens the overall body and stimulates oxygen distribution. Dietary changes can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Diets should also be rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Cutting back or eliminating trans fats and sodium is recommended.

  Proper care of the feet and legs is also important. Wash them daily and apply a moisturizer. Cut toenails regularly. Watch for blisters, cuts, sores and other problems. Always wear shoes and socks. Choose those that fit and do not hold in moisture. See a podiatrist if problems are spotted, especially fungal infections or athlete's foot.