Use of sutureless intraluminal aortic prostheses in traumatic rupture of the aorta

Despite wide acceptance of use of sutureless intraluminal prosthetic grafts in surgical management of acute and chronic aortic dissection, their use in traumatic aortic rupture appears not to have been specifically addressed. This report describes the use of intraluminal prostheses in two cases of aortic disruption due to blunt trauma. Aortic cross-clamp times were 21 and 28 minutes, respectively. Both patients have recovered without sequelae from their aortic injuries. Although not all traumatic aortic disruptions are suitable for repair with intraluminal prostheses, the ease and safety with which this device may be employed recommends consideration of their use in appropriate cases of traumatic rupture of the aorta.