J Reconstr Microsurg 1993; 9(5): 335-340
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1006740
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1993 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Clinical Applications of Acute Intraoperative Arterial Elongation

Amado Ruiz-Razura, Ernest G. Layton Jr. , John L. Williams Jr. , Benjamin E. Cohen
  • Microsurgical Training Center, Plastic Surgery Service, St. Joseph Hospital, Houston, Texas
Further Information

Publication History

Accepted for publication 1993

Publication Date:
08 March 2008 (online)

ABSTRACT

This study reports four clinical cases in which acute intraoperative, extraluminal, arterial elongation was utilized. This technique was developed to facilitate end-to-end anastomoses across vascular defects traditionally bridged with vein grafts. In the reported cases, arterial defects, ranging from 17 to 25 mm, were closed primarily following the application of this technique. Follow-up, ranging from 3 to 34 months, has demonstrated patency in all cases. The authors believe this technique can be used clinically as a reliable alternative to vein grafting for the reconstruction of certain arterial defects.