Causes of rethrombosis following arterial reconstructions below the renal arteries

Causes of rethrombosis after primary reconstructive surgery for arterial occlusive disease below the renal arteries are discussed, based on experience with 1,700 reconstructions since 1958, and data from literature. Important for reoperation is the fact that mortality of secondary procedures is much higher than for the primary ones (13% versus 0.9%). Longterm anticoagulant therapy is advocated. Results of reoperations are excellent.