Single-incision external iliac artery endarterectomy and patch angioplasty.

An isolated external iliac artery chronic total occlusion is currently treated either with subintimal percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stent or with a bypass. This article describes a new application of an old technique, endarterectomy and patch angioplasty, performed on the external iliac artery through a single flank incision. This novel approach can provide lasting patency with a low risk of complications. We present four cases and a review of the literature on the other available treatment options. This minimally invasive technique may provide a viable alternative that can be used alone or in combination with other open or endovascular techniques and can be applied in cases of groin sepsis.