The management of patients undergoing arterial reconstructive surgery.

Management of the patient undergoing arterial reconstructive surgery is multidisciplinary and challenging. It involves vigilant monitoring, early detection, and treatment of high frequency complications of the underlying disease process (atherosclerosis) and the diagnostic and surgical procedures for limb-threatening occlusive lesions. The purpose of this article is to address patterns of peripheral arterial disease, indications for surgery, types of surgical procedures, and expected outcomes. In addition, nursing care guidelines related to preoperative care, postoperative care, and discharge planning are provided.