A femoral endarterectomy helps restore blood flow through a large blood vessel near the groin. This blood vessel is called the femoral artery. You have two femoral arteries. There is one on each side of your body. They carry blood into your legs. During the surgery, a surgeon made a cut (incision) in the skin over the site of the blocked artery. They then opened the artery and cleared the blockage. This surgery lowers your risk of blocked blood flow causing leg tissue to die.

• Spend your first few days after surgery resting at home. You can do quiet activities, such as reading or watching TV.
• Take your medicines as instructed. Don't skip doses.
• Check your wound every day for signs of infection. These include redness, swelling, drainage, or warmth.
• Keep the wound dry until your doctor says it's okay to shower. Don't scrub your incision.
• Slowly increase your activity. You may need some time to get back to your normal activities.
• Don't do strenuous activity for 7 to 10 days after your surgery.
• Don't lift anything heavier than 10 pounds (4.5 kg) for 2 to 3 weeks after your surgery.
• Don't drive until your doctor says it's okay. This will most likely be 1 to 2 weeks.
• Ask your doctor when you can go back to work.

• Eat healthy foods. Choose those that are low in fat, cholesterol, and calories. Ask your doctor for menus and other diet help.
• Stay at a healthy body weight.
• After you recover from surgery, try to be more physically active. Walking is a good choice. Ask your doctor how much walking they advise. Ask about any other exercise tips.
• If you smoke, vape, or use other tobacco or nicotine products, ask your doctor for help quitting.

Make a follow-up appointment as directed.

Contact your doctor right away if you have any of these:

• Fever above 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your doctor
• Signs of infection at the wound site (redness, pain, swelling, or drainage)
• Chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Loose stitches, or your cut opens
• Bleeding a lot from the cut
• Leg swelling that doesn't get better