Lateral incision for exposure of femoral vessels

Although the incidence of femoral graft infection is low, the morbidity and mortality of this complication is significant. The routine interposition of the muscle between the skin incision and anastomosis has not been widely practiced. Our early experience with over 50 patients suggests that the lateral approach to femoral vessels provides excellent exposure of the common and profunda femoris arteries and improves soft tissue coverage of a vulnerable anastomosis.