Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Repair


Thoracic aortic aneurysm repair

Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Repair Definition

Thoracic aortic aneurysm repair is the surgical repair of aneurysm that involves the ascending, arch, or descending thoracic aorta using the diaphragm as a landmark for transition to abdominal aorta.

Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Repair: Surgical Steps

Thoracic aortic aneurysm repair requires special care to protect the spinal vessels that supply blood to the spinal cord.Protecting the spinal cord during repair is still an area of intensive research. Some surgeons feel that rapid implant of the graft to restore blood flow is the best method to protect the spinal cord.

A bypass graft called a Gott shunt can be used to redirect the blood flow around the area during surgical repair. Left-heart bypass provides the same benefit as a Gott shunt, with the addition of a mechanical pump for more controlled blood flow to the abdomen and lower extremities.