OBJECTIVE: To retrospectively evaluate the technique of antegrade cerebral perfusion via the innominate artery associated with moderate systemic hypothermia (28-30ºC) in adults operated on for aneurysms or proximal aortic dissections. METHOD: Twelve consecutive adult patients who presented with proximal aortic dissections or aneurysms were operated on. Of these, seven presented with aortic dissections and five presented with ascending aortic or aortic arch aneurysms. Arterial perfusion was achieved using an 8.0 mm PTFE graft anastomosed to the innominate artery; the brachiocephalic trunk was occluded proximally for antegrade cerebral perfusion. Systemic hypothermia of 28-30ºC was used during circulatory arrest with the mean arterial pressure of the right radial artery maintained between 50-60 mmHg. RESULTS: There were no neurological or bleeding complications. In ten cases, the aortic valve was preserved by resuspension or remodeling. The mean time of circulatory arrest with antegrade cerebral perfusion was 24 minutes (range from 20 to 35 minutes). CONCLUSION: Antegrade cerebral perfusion through the innominate artery associated with moderate hypothermia (28-30ºC) seems to be effective to protect the central nervous system and possibly to avoid excessive bleeding in the post operative period.
Aorta; Aorta; Aneurysm dissecting; Extracorporeal circulation
