Abstract
We describe total arch replacement for aortic arch aneurysm with a severely calcified ('porcelain') aorta. Cardiovascular surgery is challenging under such conditions because the calcified plate interferes with clamping, incising, and suturing of the aorta. We performed this surgery under hypothermic circulatory arrest with antegrade cerebral perfusion. Calcification manifested particularly in the ascending aorta and prevented the use of a needle. We exfoliated the calcified intimal plate using an elevator designed for hand surgery, and then covered both the inner and outer sides of the endarterectomized aorta with a strip of bovine pericardium to reinforce the anastomotic region and cover the rough surface. No complications developed during or after surgery. (Ann Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2008; 14: 402-404).
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 402-404 |
Number of pages | 3 |
Journal | Annals of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery |
Volume | 14 |
Issue number | 6 |
State | Published - Dec 2008 |
Keywords
- Aortic arch
- Atherosclerotic aortic aneurysm
- Calcification
- Hemodialysis