Autologous external jugular vein: a potential vascular graft for carotid artery reconstruction

Carotid artery reconstruction is usually performed via interposition of a bridge between the vessel stumps by using autologous or artificial vascular grafts. The greater saphenous vein (GSV) and superficial femoral artery are most commonly used for this purpose, but many disadvantages exist when using these grafts. Recent studies has successfully reconstructed the carotid artery with EJV in sheep and found more smooth muscle cells in the tunica media of human EJV arranged circumferentially. In this paper, we hypothesize that autologous external jugular vein is more suitable for reconstruction of human carotid artery according to previous research evidences. Further clinical investigation is needed to determine the feasibility and reliability of using EJV for carotid reconstruction.