Double-layer everted saphenous vein patch angioplasty for carotid endarterectomy

Saphenous vein patch angioplasty is the preferred method of closure of the arteriotomy site during carotid endarterectomies. A major early complication of the saphenous vein patch is rupture of the patch which can occur within the first few postoperative days. The reported incidence varies from 0.5% to 4%. Patch rupture can result in stroke or death. From May 1992 to April 1999, autogenous everted double-layer saphenous vein patch was used in 192 carotid endarterectomies performed on 168 patients; 96 males and 72 females. The age range was from 54 to 94 years with a mean age of 73 years. The saphenous vein is harvested from the ankle. It is everted and then used as a double-layer patch. The follow-up period was from 3 to 74 months, with a mean of 24 months. Postoperatively, there were no patch ruptures or late aneurysm formation. There was no perioperative mortality. Everted double-layer saphenous vein patch eliminates the risk of patch rupture and at the same time retains the benefits of an autologous nonprosthetic graft. Saphenous vein from the ankle can be safely used for carotid angioplasty as a double layer patch.