Comparing Transverse and Longitudinal Groin Incisions in Vascular Surgery to Reduce Surgical Site Complications

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to determine whether the type of groin incision used in vascular surgery affects the development of surgical site complications. The study focuses on patients undergoing vascular reconstruction in the groin area, comparing transverse incisions to longitudinal incisions. The main questions include whether transverse incisions result in fewer complications, readmissions, reoperations, shorter hospital stays, and lower amputation rates. Participants are randomly assigned to have either a transverse or longitudinal groin incision during their vascular surgery. The transverse incision is made parallel to the inguinal ligament with careful dissection to preserve lymphatic vessels, while the longitudinal incision is made directly over the femoral artery with similar attention to lymphatic preservation. The surgical approach may be adjusted if necessary for adequate artery access. During the study, researchers will monitor surgical site complications, reoperations, readmissions, length of hospital stay, mortality, and groin healing over a 35-day period after the operation. Participants will be followed closely during this time to assess outcomes related to their incision type. The study does not involve masking, and the allocation to incision type is randomized to ensure objective comparison.

Transverse Versus Longitudinal Groin Incision in Vascular Surgery