patency
The state of being open and unobstructed, referring to blood vessels or surgical grafts that maintain adequate flow.
Full Definition
A fundamental concept in vascular surgery describing the continued openness and functionality of blood vessels, bypass grafts, or endovascular interventions. Patency is assessed through physical examination (pulse palpation), non-invasive imaging (duplex ultrasound), or invasive angiography. Primary patency refers to continuous function without any intervention, while secondary patency includes interventions to maintain function. Patency rates are typically reported at standardized time intervals (30 days, 1 year, 5 years) and serve as key outcome measures for comparing different treatment strategies. Loss of patency may result from thrombosis, stenosis, or structural failure.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish primary from secondary patency in outcomes reporting. Not to be confused with 'potency'.
In Context
- "Five-year primary patency of the bypass graft was 78% in this series." — Research publication
- "Duplex surveillance confirmed continued patency of all three bypass grafts." — Follow-up report