Advancement on the alexis carrel technique: A practical alternative for continuous end-to-end vascular anastomosis

Abstract

Since description of the first vascular anastomosis techniques pioneered by Alexis Carrel, vascular reconstructive techniques have undergone several advancements. The traditional three-point “Alexis” technique for and end-to-end anastomosis remains a textbook description of an ideal anastomosis, especially in microsurgery. In clinical practice, dissection extent, vessel mobility, and timing can limit the applicability for daily use. We describe a more intuitive procedure, using common vascular techniques of parachuting and growth factor inclusion to achieve a technically perfect end-to-end anastomosis. In particular, the usual limitations of the “Alexis” technique do not limit this procedure making it easily learnable and reproducible.

Keywords

• anastomosis
• surgical technique
• transplant