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