Thoracofemoral bypass for treatment of juxtarenal aortic occlusion

Descending thoracic aorta-to-femoral artery bypass grafting is considered a good alternative procedure for revascularization in cases of aortic graft failure, graft infection, and other intraabdominal pathologies not amenable to standard aortofemoral revascularization. Its use as the primary mode of treatment in selected cases is still under investigation. From January 1998 to June 2001, 5 patients underwent descending thoracic aorta-to-femoral artery bypass grafting as primary treatment for juxtarenal aortic occlusion. There was no operative mortality nor major morbidity; a groin incision infection occurred in one case. The mean hospital stay was 8.2 days and intensive care unit stay was 2.6 days. Graft failure was not encountered in the short-term follow-up. In spite of the small number of patients, it was concluded that thoracic aortofemoral bypass offers excellent inflow and reliable patency and may be considered for primary revascularization in cases of juxtarenal aortic occlusion.