Potential Problems

As with all surgery there is no guarantee of 100% success and there are problems that can occur. One of the main problems is that the graft may simply not grow well enough to do its job resulting in either persistent symptoms at the same or slightly worse level, or symptoms not allowing the patient to get back to what they would like to do. It is important that the expectations are fully discussed prior to the procedure.

Serious complications such as infection and deep vein thrombosis can occur in any operation and the risk is approximately 1-2%. General medical problems associated with the general anaesthetic can also occur and need to be discussed with the surgical team.