FEMORAL-ARTERY EXPOSURE FOR ENDOVASCULAR ANEURYSM REPAIR THROUGH OBLIQUE INCISIONS

Purpose: To offer an alternative technique for accessing the femoral a rtery prior to endovascular grafting. Technique: An oblique incision i s made over the medial half of the inguinal ligament and continues to the femoral sheath, which is opened longitudinally. The distal externa l iliac artery and proximal common femoral artery are isolated. A tiny stab wound is made distal to the primary wound for femoral artery pun cture and catheter access. Conclusions: Using an oblique incision at t he level of the inguinal ligament optimizes exposure for endograft ins ertion and may minimize the frequency of serious wound complications.