"Cobrahead" graft for intercostal artery implantation during descending aortic replacement.

Elefteriades, J A; Coady, M A; Nikas, D J; Kopf, G S; Gusberg, R J · Ann Thorac Surg · 2000

case_series · Level IV

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Abstract

A technique for a separate sidearm graft ("cobrahead") to facilitate reattachment of intercostal arteries in descending aortic replacement is described. The technique allows for very prompt restoration of spinal cord blood flow (via a Y attachment from the arterial perfusion circuit). The technique permits a simple, quick, and fully accessible anastomosis, technically more facile than the traditional side-to-side anastomosis. None of 7 patients treated with this technique had early or late paraplegia. Preliminary computed tomographic follow-up scans confirm patency of the cobrahead graft.

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