Name of the Procedure:

Suture Repair of Aorta or Great Vessels; without Shunt or Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Summary

This procedure involves repairing tears or injuries to the large blood vessels like the aorta using sutures. It is performed directly on the vessel without the use of a shunt (bypass channel) or a cardiopulmonary bypass machine.

Purpose

The procedure is done to fix damage to major blood vessels, which can help prevent life-threatening bleeding or aortic rupture. The goal is to restore normal blood flow and maintain the integrity of the vascular system.

Indications

• Traumatic injury to the aorta or other major vessels.
• Aneurysms or significant vessel tears.
• Conditions that involve vessel dissection or rupture.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Medications may be adjusted, particularly blood thinners.
• Preoperative imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI may be performed to assess the extent of vessel damage.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. The surgeon makes an incision to access the damaged vessel.
3. The damaged area of the vessel is isolated from blood flow.
4. Sutures are used to stitch the tear or cut in the vessel.
5. The integrity of the repaired vessel is checked.
6. The incision is closed, and sterile dressings are applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the repair.

Setting

This surgery is performed in a hospital operating room.

Personnel

• Cardiovascular or thoracic surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical technician

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Vessel narrowing or blockage
• Nerve damage
• Heart attack or stroke

Benefits

• Immediate stabilization of the vessel and blood flow.
• Prevention of severe complications such as aortic rupture.
• Improved long-term survival and quality of life.

Recovery

• Patients may need to stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring.
• Limited physical activity for several weeks.
• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
• Pain management with prescribed medications.

Alternatives

• Endovascular stenting (less invasive alternative).
• Conservative management (for less severe cases).
• Each option has its own risks and benefits which should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient is under anesthesia and will not feel any pain. Post-surgery, there may be some discomfort at the incision site, and pain management will be provided. Patients may experience some limitations on physical activity during recovery. Regular follow-ups are essential to ensure proper healing and functionality of the repaired vessel.