Advanced/optional - bypass
To use the dissected vessels even more efficiently a bypass can be performed.
This way two end-to-side anastomoses can be performed with the same preparatory effort, and a smaller number of animals are needed for learning.
However, the second anastomosis may be difficult to evaluate due to the diminished blood flow.
After completing and evaluating the fistula, ligate the femoral artery in close proximity to the inguinal ligament.
Cut and prepare artery and vein as shown previously.
Place two single clamps or the approximator on the vein from cranial and perform one more end-to-side anastomosis.
Final suggestions
If your anastomosis is patent, cover it up with moist gauze and leave it alone for 20 minutes. Then test its patency once more.
You can use the same vessel to repeat the exercise for as often as you can approximate the vessel ends, or you can use the same animal for another exercise on abdominal vessels, contralateral femoral vessels or neck vessels.