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.
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