[Regional ischemia/necrosis after surgery of lumbal aortic aneurysm]

Following operation for aneurysm of the abdominal aorta two patients developed buttock necrosis. One procedure was elective and one was an emergency procedure. Patient 1 in addition developed paralysis of the leg on the same side as the buttock necrosis, while patient 2 in addition developed colon ischemia. Both patients died from these complications. Buttock necrosis and paralysis are rare complications after operation for abdominal aortic aneurysm. Regional ischemia of the left colon is a more common complication. The case report illustrates the importance of the pelvic-femoral collaterals. In addition we emphasize the importance of maintaining or restoring hypogastric circulation in order to prevent these complications.