OBJECTIVE: We analyzed late results of extra-anatomic aortic bypass technique with Dacron graft from the ascending aorta to the descending aorta for repair of aortic arch coarctation in adults. MATERIAL AND METHODS: From 1979 to 2000, a total of 15 adult patients, aged 18 years to 61 years (mean 30.8 ± 12.1 years) underwent extra-anatomic bypass graft for surgical repair of aortic arch coarctation. Operative exposure was median sternotomy with posterior pericardial approach in 13 (86.7%) patients and left thoracotomy in 2 (13.3%). Associated procedures were performed in 3 (20.0%) patient and there were 4 (26.7%) reoperations. The patients had clinical evaluation, echocardiographic and angiographic studies, the latter with magnetic resonance post-operative. Follow-up was 6.9 ± 6.7 years (range 30 days to 21 years). RESULTS: There was neither early or late mortality nor neurologic complications. There was no late complications with the Dacron graft neither reoperations. All patients were asymptomatic with patent Dacron graft confirmed by echocardiography. Five (33.3%) patients had mild hypertension. The magnetic resonance was done in 11 (73.3%) patients and the Dacron graft were long-term patent in all. CONCLUSIONS: The extra-anatomic bypass aortic technique with Dacron graft from the ascending aorta to the descending aorta for repair of aortic arch coarctation in adults is a safe operation with low morbidity and mortality. The good long-term results proved to be safe and less invasive technique to repair the aortic arch coarctation or recoarctation in adults.
Aortic coarctation; Aorta, thoracic; Aortic coarctation; Aorta, thoracic; Aorta, thoracic; Coronary angiography
