Transverse Aortic Arch Transection in a Polytrauma Patient-Challenges Faced and Lessons Learned

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Vascular Reconstruction

Background:

• Aortic injuries, especially with multiple traumas, present significant mortality risks.
• Transverse aortic arch transection is a rare but devastating injury.
• Associated common carotid artery dissection complicates management and increases risk.

Observation:

• A polytrauma patient presented with transverse aortic arch transection.
• The injury was complicated by dissection of both common carotid arteries.
• This complex scenario required immediate and intricate surgical intervention.

Findings:

• The patient underwent successful aortic arch replacement.
• Reimplantation of the innominate and left common carotid arteries was performed.
• An additional graft from the ascending aorta to the right common carotid artery ensured vascular supply.

Implications:

• This case highlights a successful surgical strategy for complex aortic arch injuries with bilateral carotid involvement.
• The described technique offers a potential solution for similar high-risk vascular trauma cases.
• Effective management of such injuries is crucial for improving patient outcomes in severe trauma.