| Abstract: | From November 1983 through September 1985, 102 greater saphenous veins (GSVs) were assessed and mapped by means of real-time duplex ultrasonic scanning before in situ infrainguinal revascularization. Each GSV was also visually assessed at operation. Eighty-five GSVs were successfully used for infrainguinal revascularization; duplex scanning correctly identified 82 of these GSVs as being acceptable for use in in situ bypass. Seventeen GSVs were unacceptable for in situ bypass; duplex scanning correctly identified 11 of these as being unacceptable. Duplex scanning provides anatomic information about the GSV, including size, patency, course, varicosities, double segments, and tributaries. This information permits the surgeon to perform infrainguinal revascularization expeditiously. |
