< to procedures Bypass Grafts of the Aorta Occlusive disease of the aorta and the starting of the leg arteries is quite common in this country. It manifests itself usually with pain on walking in either the buttocks, hips, or calves. People who smoke, have high cholesterol, or a family history of artery disease are at higher risk. Treatment for this disease is done by reestablishing blood flow through the blocked arteries. Options that exist include minimally invasive endovascular angioplasty and stent placement to reestablish flow through the vessels by opening the blockages. This technology is very similar to angioplasties done in the heart and is a specialty of the Surgical Care Practice. When the arteries cannot be opened using angioplasty, bypassing the blocked segments with specially fabricated Teflon grafts will reestablish normal blood flow. Questions? Frequently Asked Questions