The authors propose the treatment of aortic aneurysms by using an intraluminal graft. A new device which transforms any kind of graft of different sizes and diameters into an intraluminal one is described. This new device just needs an extra-vascular circunferential ligature and does not require any fixation suture. The use of the rigid, sulcated DELRIN (R) ring simplifies the technique shortening the duration of the surgery, reducing surgical bleeding and dispensing the use of profound hypothermia and platelet transfusion. Between May 1989 and January 1993, 22 patients were submited to aneurysmectomy of the aorta using this technique. Twelve patients exhibited acute aortic dissection (type I and II DeBakey), one DeBakey type III acute aortic dissection, two presented descending aortic aneurysm, two cases were of thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysm and five aneurysms of abdominal aorta. Three patients died in the imediate post-operative period from cerebrovascular accident, mesenteric thrombosis and pulmonary infection. The survivors have been followed up as outpatients.
aneurysms, aortic; aneurysms, aortic