Remote Superficial Femoral Artery Endarterectomy
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
Remote superficial femoral artery endarterectomy (RSFAE) is a procedure to remove plaque inside the superficial femoral artery. The femoral artery is the main blood vessel in your thigh that carries blood and oxygen to the legs. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, or tissues that may clog the artery. RSFAE helps improve blood flow and relieve symptoms caused by a narrowed or blocked artery.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You have any of the following signs of a heart attack:
- Squeezing, pressure, or pain in your chest
- You may also have any of the following:
- Discomfort or pain in your back, neck, jaw, stomach, or arm
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Lightheadedness or a sudden cold sweat
- You suddenly feel lightheaded and short of breath.
- You have chest pain when you take a deep breath or cough.
- You cough up blood.
Seek care immediately if:
- Blood soaks through your bandage.
- Your incision has blood, pus, or a foul-smelling odor coming from it.
- Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
- Your foot or leg becomes cold, numb, pale, or is very painful.
- Your shoulder, arm, or fingers are numb, tingly, cool to the touch, blue, or pale.
Call your doctor if:
- You have a fever.
- You have nausea or are vomiting.
- You have redness, discharge, or pain in the procedure area.
- Your skin is itchy, swollen, or has a rash.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- Antiplatelets help prevent blood clots. This medicine makes it more likely for you to bleed or bruise.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Gently wash the area that has stitches.
Pat the area dry. Do not rub your stitches. Apply a new bandage if directed.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
You will need to return for tests to check blood flow through your artery. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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