• G W H Schurink, M W De Haan, A G Peppelenbosch, W Mess, and M J Jacobs.
• Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands. gwh.schurink@mumc.nl
• J Cardiovasc Surg. 2013 Feb 1; 54 (1 Suppl 1): 117-24.

AimSpinal cord ischemia is a well-known complication in the treatment of thoracoabdominal aneurysms (TAAA). Despite the fact that endovascular treatment of TAAA is less invasive, spinal cord ischemia rate is not reduced if compared to open repair.MethodsWe report the results of our experience of spinal cord function monitoring by measuring motor evoked potentials (MEP) during endovascular treatment of TAAA type II and III. Depending on the level of the MEPs the decision is made whether to stage the procedure or not. We treated ten patients according to this protocol.ResultsIn two patients, MEPs decreased 50% or more and procedures were staged. Both experienced no neurological complications after first and second procedure. No MEPs decrease was seen during the second procedures. One of the other eight patients had a temporary right lower leg pararesis.ConclusionIn conclusion we state that our first experience demonstrates the value of assessing spinal cord function during extensive endovascular TAAA repair with subsequent strategies to prevent paraplegia.

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