Post-Arterial Reconstruction Edema, Are Lymphatic Channels to Blame?

Edema which follows successful arterial reconstruction of a previously is-chemic lower limb is a common observation. Most patients have no long term difficulty, but this side effect requires considerable attention to leg care and frequently delays resumption of normal activity. Earlier studies suggested vari-ous causes. This study looked into lymphatic causes. 125I RIHSA clearance was monitored in 4 patients who developed edema following femoropopliteal bypass, and 5 patients who did not develop edema following other vascular procedures. In the edematous limbs following successful femoropopliteal bypass grafting, the mean T1/2 was 18.4 hours when compared to 52.7 hrs. in other procedures (p<.025). This indicates increased lymphatic flow of the distal superficial lym-phatics. It is concluded that post reconstruction edema is not due to lymphatic disruption but is instead of multifactorial origin