Which postoperative complication is specifically linked to the saphenous vein harvest site?

• A. Pulmonary embolism
• B. Arrhythmia
• C. Leg edema
• D. Hyperkalemia

Answer: (C)

Harvesting the saphenous vein during CABG can disrupt the leg’s superficial venous drainage and lymphatic pathways, so edema becomes a direct, site-specific postoperative issue. When the vein is removed, the local venous return is impaired and lymphatic drainage can be disturbed, leading to swelling in the leg from which the vein was taken. This edema is often most noticeable in the harvested leg and can persist for some time after surgery, especially if the leg is not elevated or if ambulation is delayed.

Pulmonary embolism is a serious complication after surgery but is not tied to the harvest site itself; it usually stems from a thrombus elsewhere in the venous system and then travels to the lungs. Arrhythmias arise from cardiac irritation or electrolyte shifts related to the bypass procedure, not from where the vein was harvested. Hyperkalemia reflects systemic electrolyte or renal issues and likewise isn’t a direct consequence of the harvest site.

So, the complication specifically linked to the saphenous vein harvest site is the leg edema caused by disruption of local venous and lymphatic drainage. Managing it involves leg elevation, compression as appropriate, and encouraging early mobilization to improve venous return.