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Traumatic rupture of the aorta. A five-year experience
The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
|November 1, 1976
Summary
Traumatic thoracic aortic rupture surgery in 31 patients showed an 81% survival rate. Repair without shunts reduced complications and blood loss, suggesting it
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Traumatic rupture of the thoracic aorta is a life-threatening injury.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are critical for survival.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate surgical repair outcomes for traumatic thoracic aortic rupture.
- To compare different surgical techniques, including shunts and bypass, versus no shunt.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 31 consecutive patients undergoing surgery for traumatic thoracic aortic rupture.
- Surgical repair methods included left heart bypass, passive aorta-aorta shunt, and no shunt/bypass.
- All cases confirmed by preoperative aortogram.
Main Results:
- Overall survival rate was 81% (25 of 31 patients).
- The group undergoing repair without a shunt had reduced complications and blood loss.
- Complications in the aorta-aorta shunt group included paraplegia and renal failure.
Conclusions:
- Rigorous aortographic search is recommended for trauma patients with widened mediastinum.
- Descending thoracic aorta tears can be safely repaired without shunts if performed expeditiously.
- Surgical repair without shunts may lead to better outcomes in select trauma patients.