Aortobifemoral Bypass Surgery Using Mini-Laparotomy Technique

We describe 4 cases of aortobifemoral bypass performed using a mini-laparotomy incision (6 to 8 cm) between January 1997 and February 1998. Revascularization of the lower extremities was carried out successfully without the need to enlarge the incision. The mean aortic cross-clamp time was 12.7 ± 3.4 minutes and the mean duration of the operation was 93.7 ± 30.9 minutes. In all cases, bowel sounds appeared at 2 to 8 hours postoperatively and oral nutrition was started after 24 hours. The mean hospital stay was 4.7 days. With the advantages of short operation time, optimal aortic exposure, easy and safe aortic cross-clamping, limited postoperative pain and scar tissue, early mobilization and resumption of intestinal functions, and short hospitalization, we believe that the mini-laparotomy technique is safe and effective for aortobifemoral bypass operations.