Indications to open surgical revascularization of visceral arteries in endovascular era

Abstract

Introduction: Due to the high success rate of endovascular procedures, open surgical treatment of visceral arteries has become rarer worldwide. Yet, open surgical techniques remain essential for cases of chronic mesenteric ischemia as well as in other clinical instances.
Methods: Drawing on their own experience and literary data, the authors summarize the indications to open surgical repair of the visceral arteries. They point out the situations in which surgical management is the method of choice even in the endovascular era. Discussing the advantages and disadvantages of various vascular reconstructions, they point out their technical challenges.
Conclusion: Although used less frequently, open surgical repair of the visceral arteries needs to remain among the vascular surgeon’s tools. Not only for situations when an endovascular technique fails, but also for elective procedures in patients in whom an endovascular approach is contraindicated or not possible.