WILIS IRLE ARITINS, IMPORTANT FOR CEREBRAL PROTECTION IN AORTIC SURGERY - PRIMARY CT ANGIO DATA

Unilateral selective cerebral perfusion (SCP) is a method for cerebral protection in aortic arch surgery. However variations of the circle of Willis (CoW) could vitiate its protective effect. The aim of our present work was to make a retrospective analysis of 30 patients, in whom CT angio was performed between January and March 2008. Variations of Willis circle, which could compromise the perfusion during unilateral SCP were found in 21 patients (70%). We also found that many patients have significant stenosis of cerebral arteries. Our present study shows the need of extensive preoperative examination and meticulous intraoperative monitoring.