Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair (TEVAR) for Grade III Traumatic Thoracic Aortic Injury

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Vascular Imaging

Background:

• Traumatic thoracic aortic injury is a significant cause of mortality, often resulting from deceleration trauma.
• Prompt diagnosis and intervention are critical for patient survival.
• Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is increasingly preferred for its minimally invasive nature and reduced complication rates compared to open surgery.

Observation:

• A 26-year-old female sustained a thoracic aortic injury from an automobile accident.
• The patient presented with a pseudoaneurysm and dissection of the descending thoracic aorta (aortic isthmus).
• She underwent successful TEVAR with endoprosthesis placement.

Findings:

• The endovascular repair was technically adequate, resolving the acute injury.
• Follow-up included chest CT angiography at baseline and 12 months postoperatively.
• The patient demonstrated a favorable clinical evolution, indicating successful treatment.

Implications:

• TEVAR is a viable and effective option for the emergency management of traumatic thoracic aortic injuries.
• Minimally invasive endovascular repair facilitates rapid patient stabilization and avoids open surgical risks.
• This case highlights the importance of rapid clinical suspicion and intervention in high-risk trauma patients.