Traumatic descending thoracic aneurysms: discussion and nursing care

Traumatic aneurysms of the descending thoracic aorta are a rare but lethal event, having a mortality of 85-90%. Mortality of this population remains high due to the occurrence of aortic rupture. The isthmus of the aorta, just distal to the left subclavian artery is the most frequent site of injury. Acute traumatic injury to the aorta is characterized by hemorrhagic shock symptoms due to the tear in the layers of the aortic wall. Chronic traumatic injury with aneurysmal formation may not surface with symptoms for months or years after initial trauma. Patients who have formed a chronic aneurysm after a trauma incident can experience dysphagia, chest pain, dyspnea, or cough. Surgical repair involves placing a dacron graft in the area of aneurysmal formation. Protection of the lower extremities during the surgical procedure may prevent paraplegia. In a review of ten cases of chronic traumatic aneurysms at Loyola University Medical Center during the past twenty (20) years, all patients underwent surgical repair. There was no incidence of paraplegia. Post-operative nursing care focuses on monitoring hemodynamic stability, preventing respiratory complications and controlling pain.