A modified extra-anatomic route for revascularization of the lower extremity

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Surgical Techniques
• Lower Extremity Revascularization

Background:

• Standard medial surgical approaches to the popliteal artery and tibial vessels can be compromised by localized infection.
• Urgent revascularization is often necessary in cases of infected popliteal trifurcation or tibial artery disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an alternative surgical approach for tibial vessel revascularization when the standard medial route is unusable due to infection.
• To present a successful case utilizing a lateral tunnel and posterior tibial vessel access.

Main Methods:

• A lateral tunnel was created from the calf to the groin.
• Posterior access to the tibial vessels was achieved through this tunnel.
• This approach was employed for urgent revascularization in a patient with an infected popliteal area.

Main Results:

• The lateral tunnel approach provided successful access to the tibial vessels.
• Urgent revascularization was achieved using this alternative technique.
• The patient's limb was successfully revascularized despite the challenging anatomical constraints.

Conclusions:

• A lateral tunnel approach is a viable alternative for tibial revascularization when infection precludes standard medial access.
• This technique offers a solution for urgent revascularization in complex cases involving infected lower extremity vasculature.
• Successful application in a clinical case demonstrates the efficacy of this novel surgical strategy.