ABSTRACT
When it is necessary to open the ECA endarterectomy as a separate Y-shaped incision as previously mentioned, I prefer to begin by repairing the ECA arteriotomy first. An anchor stitch is placed distal to the apex of the ECA arteriotomy, and working distally to proximally, a continuous interrupted nonlocking suture is placed. At the carotid bulb, a separate single stitch is thrown and tied, and the free end of the continuous ECA stitch is tied to this. The other free end of the single stitch can then be incorporated into the main arteriotomy suture line. This figure demonstrates a complete ECA repair.
