Exact knowledge of the topographical anatomy of the arterial vascular system is the basis for all access routes. This article describes the most important assess routes in the neck and torso regions and gives an overview of the basic principles of the surgical technique with respect to suture material, suture technique, anastomotic technique and the atraumatic preparation of the anastomosis region. The article makes no claims to completeness because this would overstretch the limits but refers in particular to the references listed.