Saphenous vein removed during thigh lift, and my femoral artery stops abruptly in my thigh. Will it cause circulation issues?

Question

I had a medial thigh lift w/ complications I found out that my saphenous vein was removed and my femoral artery abruptly stops mid thigh in the place I developed a 17 cm hematoma. By my saphenous vein being gone will that continue to cause me issues with circulation? I was told that the gsv should not be removed . I am now being told I have to have yet another surgery. Can anyone please elaborate on this issue for me. I am in pain, my leg is swollen and feels like a 20 pound sack of flour.

Lars Enevoldsen, MD · Answer

Thank you for your interesting question.  Without photos and more information it is impossible to give you any definitive advice on line.  What I can tell you is that cardiac surgeons harvest the greater saphenous vein all the time for coronary artery bypass grafts so the removal of the vein by itself should not be a cause for concern. At mid thigh the femoral artery has already divided into it's deep and superficial branches so there should be enough collateral circulation to supply your lower leg and foot.  The pain and swelling is, of course, a concern and you should work with your surgeon to do what can be done to make it better.  Occasional complications unfortunately go with the territory but if your surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery then you should be in good hands.

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Saphenous vein removed during thigh lift, and my femoral artery stops abruptly in my thigh. Will it cause circulation issues?This is tough to answer without photos and in person examination.Dr Sajjadian,

Saphenous vein removed during thigh lift, and my femoral artery stops abruptly in my thigh. Will it cause circulation issues?

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