[Significance of the pedal arch for patency of femoropopliteal bypasses].

The authors pay attention to the evaluation of drainage in indications of femoropopliteal reconstructions with regard to the patency of the peripheral circulation. Based on comparison of preoperative arteriographic findings regarding the patency of venous femoropopliteal bypasses in 149 operated patients the authors were able to confirm their previous assumption that when evaluating the drainage it is necessary to take into consideration not only the number of patent arteries on the leg but also the patency of their continuation in the area of the sole where they form the plantar arch. When evaluating the drainage it is thus necessary to evaluate the patency of the entire complex: arteries of the leg+plantar arch. From this ensues the authors' demand to use in indications of femoropopliteal reconstructions as a basis arteriography which visualizes the entire peripheral arterial circulation incl. the plantar arch.