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Traumatic aortic transections: eight-year experience with the "clamp-sew" technique
M S Sweeney1, D J Young, O H Frazier
1Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Texas-Houston Medical School 77030, USA.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|August 1, 1997
Summary
The clamp-sew technique is a safe and effective surgical method for treating traumatic aortic transections, a condition with high mortality. This retrospective review of 75 patients demonstrates its efficacy in managing acute aortic injuries.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Surgical Techniques
Background:
- Traumatic aortic transection carries a high mortality rate.
- Significant debate exists regarding optimal surgical techniques for acute traumatic aortic transection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the "clamp-sew" method for treating traumatic aortic transections.
- To assess the outcomes of patients undergoing surgical repair of aortic injuries secondary to blunt trauma.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 75 patients with aortic injuries from blunt trauma over 8 years.
- Surgical treatment using the "clamp-sew" method in 71 patients.
- Analysis of aortic cross-clamp times, associated injuries, and mortality rates.
Main Results:
- Aortic cross-clamp time averaged 24 minutes; one patient developed paraplegia.
- 51/75 patients had significant associated injuries (intrathoracic, orthopedic, intraabdominal, CNS).
- Overall 30-day mortality was 12%, with most deaths linked to multiple severe associated injuries, particularly CNS damage.
Conclusions:
- The "clamp-sew" technique is a safe and effective method for managing traumatic aortic transections.
- While associated injuries impact outcomes, the clamp-sew approach provides a viable treatment option.