Efficacy of a newly modified technique for distal limited open stenting in octogenarians with aortic arch aneurysm.

Objective: We assessed the efficacy of distal limited open stenting procedure in octogenarians with distal aortic arch aneurysm.

Methods: During the last 5 years, 24 patients underwent distal limited open stenting. Mean patient age was 81.6 ± 2.5 years, ranging from 80 to 90 years. The hemicircumference of the anterior surface of the arch around the left common carotid artery was obliquely incised, and a J-Graft Open Stent (Japan Lifeline Co, Ltd, Tokyo, Japan) was inserted into the descending aorta. During open stenting, circulatory arrest was induced at a rectal temperature of 28°C without any cerebral perfusion. As soon as the proximal side of the stent graft and aortic incision were concomitantly sutured, rapid rewarming was initiated through heated blood perfusion.

Results: The durations of circulatory arrest, aortic crossclamping, cardiopulmonary bypass, the overall operation, postoperative mechanical ventilation, and hospital stay were 17.0 minutes, 27.8 minutes, 106.1 minutes, 167.6 minutes, 11.0 hours, and 13.9 days, respectively. The in-hospital mortality was 0%. There were no incidences of brain damage, renal failure, or respiratory failure. At the time of this study, 21 patients were doing well and visiting the outpatient clinic, and 19 scored more than 20 points on the Mini-Mental State Examination, indicating no development of dementia. The actuarial survival at 5 years was 82.4%.

Conclusions: This unique technique is safe and effective. It is a very attractive procedure that can contribute to maintaining a good long-term quality of life for octogenarians with distal aortic arch aneurysm.