Remote bypass grafts for managing infected popliteal artery lesions

Infected false aneurysms of the popliteal artery may complicate vascular repairs for trauma or primary arterial disease. Adequate debridement and drainage are necessary if the limb is to be salvaged, but direct arterial grafting through the infected area cannot be performed safely. Vascular reconstruction can be accomplished by performing a femoropopliteal or iliopopliteal bypass through a lateral approach, then the infected artery can be removed safely through separate incisions. This technique was used successfully in managing four patients with infected popliteal artery pseudoaneurysms.