Wrapping of aortic grafts by pedicled pericardial flaps

In cases of ascending aorta replacement, pathologic tissues are often completely excised to ensure better accuracy of anastomosis and to avoid inclusion technique drawbacks. In the technique we describe, aortic repair is performed in an open manner, but sutures are covered by one or two mobilized pericardial flaps. This maneuver can reduce blood loss and protect Dacron grafts from adhesions to adjoining organs.