Abbindung

Abbindung, from the German term meaning “binding off,” refers to a medical procedure in which a blood vessel or duct is tied to occlude flow. In English-language medical usage, it is typically described as ligation. The term encompasses the deliberate constriction or closure of structures to stop bleeding or to prevent passage through a channel, and has appeared in both human medicine and veterinary practice.

Applications of Abbindung include hemostasis during surgery, control of hemorrhage, and the occlusion of ducts for sterilization or other therapeutic purposes. Examples include ligation of blood vessels during abdominal or thoracic operations, and ligation of ducts such as the vas deferens or fallopian tubes in the context of sterilization. In veterinary medicine, abbindung is commonly used to manage bleeding or to perform certain reproductive or anatomical procedures.

Techniques and materials used for abbindung vary but share a common principle: secure, durable closure of the target structure. Methods include tying a ligature with sutures, applying ligation clips, or using energy-assisted devices and stapling systems to achieve occlusion. The choice of technique depends on the vessel or duct’s size, location, and the surgeon’s preference, with attention to minimizing tissue trauma and ensuring long-term closure.

Risks associated with abbindung include incomplete occlusion, recurrence of bleeding, damage to adjacent structures, infection, and postoperative complications such as tissue necrosis or thrombosis. Alternatives and adjuncts to traditional ligation include electrocautery, ultrasonic or energy-based vessel sealing, and vascular clips or stapling devices.

See also hemostasis, ligation, tubal ligation, vasectomy.