ABSTRACT
Advancements in surgical techniques, better instruments and graft materials, and substantial improvements in diagnostic imaging have made it possible for vascular surgeons to execute vascular surgical procedures with a high likelihood of success in most circumstances. In addition, a better understanding of how to treat patients before, during, and after vascular surgery has contributed greatly to a reduction in the morbidity and mortality rates associated with these operations. Nonetheless, procedurerelated and systemic complications continue to occur and can probably never be totally eliminated because most patients undergoing vascular surgery are elderly and the procedures are complicated by atherosclerosis.
