Vascular Exposure - Principles
- Proximal and distal control of vessels must be gained prior to arteriotomy.
- Vessels should be exposed with sharp dissection, taking care to identify and preserve major branches.
- Assessment of atherosclerotic plaques in the artery should be made and clamping of these areas avoided to prevent embolization and dissection.
- Adequate heparinization and communication with anesthesia should be conducted prior to clamping and unclamping of any artery.