Extra-Anatomic Revascularization of Extensive Coral Reef Aorta
Andrea Gaggiano1, Holta Kasemi2, Andrea Monti1
1Vascular Surgery Unit, Department of Surgery, "Cardinal Massaia" Hospital, Asti, Italy.
Annals of Vascular Surgery
|May 10, 2017
Summary
Extra-anatomic bypass surgery effectively treats Coral Reef Aorta (CRA), a dangerous visceral aorta condition. This approach reduces organ ischemia and ensures long-term patency, offering a viable solution for patients.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Aortic Diseases
Background:
- Coral Reef Aorta (CRA) is a rare but life-threatening condition affecting the visceral aorta.
- CRA can lead to severe visceral and renal infarction, necessitating timely intervention.
- Existing surgical options for CRA have limitations, driving the need for alternative treatments.
Observation:
- Four patients with extensive CRA underwent extra-anatomic aortic revascularization with selective visceral vessel clamping.
- The surgical procedures were performed between April 2006 and October 2012.
- This approach involved carefully clamping specific visceral vessels during the bypass surgery.
Findings:
- The study achieved 100% technical success in all treated patients.
- No perioperative deaths occurred, indicating a safe surgical profile.
- All patients remained asymptomatic post-surgery, with bypasses and target vessels maintaining patency for extended follow-up periods (9-94 months).
Implications:
- Extra-anatomic bypass with selective visceral vessel clamping minimizes aortic occlusion time.
- This technique significantly reduces the risk of organ ischemia during CRA treatment.
- Treatment decisions for CRA should be individualized and performed in high-volume centers for optimal outcomes.


