[Endovascular therapy of acute traumatic aortic transection]

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Vascular Endovascular Therapy

Background:

• Acute traumatic transaction of the thoracic aorta (TAT) is a life-threatening injury.
• Traditional open surgical repair carries significant risks.
• Endovascular stent-graft prostheses present a potential alternative treatment modality.

Observation:

• A patient with acute traumatic transaction of the thoracic aorta (TAT) resulting from a motor vehicle accident was diagnosed via computed tomography angiography (CTA).
• The patient underwent immediate endovascular therapy using a stent-graft prosthesis.
• Post-treatment, the patient experienced symptom improvement, including reduced chest pain and shortness of breath, with normalized hemoglobin levels and no immediate complications.

Findings:

• Computed tomography angiography (CTA) at 6 months demonstrated satisfactory stent-graft placement.
• The subclavian artery remained clearly visualized, indicating successful revascularization and patency.
• No complications were observed during the 6-month follow-up period.

Implications:

• Endovascular therapy may be the preferred first-line treatment for patients with acute traumatic transaction of the thoracic aorta (TAT), particularly those with severe symptoms or confirmed aortic injury on CTA.
• Early consideration of endovascular approaches can lead to improved patient outcomes in thoracic aorta trauma.
• This case highlights the feasibility and efficacy of endovascular stent-graft repair for acute thoracic aortic injuries.