Dacron mesh wrapping to support the aneurysmally dilated or friable ascending aorta

A technique of supporting the aneurysmally dilated or friable ascending aorta using a fine Dacron mesh is described. In patients with aneurysmal dilatation of the ascending aorta, longitudinal resection of a portion of the aneurysm combined with wrapping can avoid replacement with a synthetic graft. The Dacron mesh, because of its transparency and ability to stretch, allows a more accurate fit over the aorta, avoids hematoma formation, provides visualization of suture lines after wrapping, and facilitates proximal vein graft anastomoses for combined aortocoronary bypass.