REPLACEMENT OF ENTIRE AORTA FROM AORTIC-VALVE TO BIFURCATION DURING ONE OPERATION

A 68-year-old patient presented with an extensive aortic aneurysm exte nding from the aortic valve to the aortic bifurcation associated with severe continuous pain, dysphagia, and hoarseness. Because of the risk of impending rupture and an ''elephant trunk'' procedure not being an option, the entire aorta from the aortic valve to the aortic bifurcat ion was replaced during one operation using deep hypothermia with circ ulatory arrest and retrograde perfusion of the brain through the jugul ar veins. Seven months after the operation the patient walks more than 3 km a day and Lives a normal life. The operative repair is presented .