The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Feb 2015
Observational StudyThe classic elephant trunk technique for staged thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic repair: long-term results.
The classic elephant trunk (ET) technique has become the standard approach for patients with diffuse aortic disease requiring a staged thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic repair. The aim of this study was to assess long-term outcomes and predictors for survival after surgical repair of extensive thoracic aortic disease with the ET technique. ⋯ A 2-stage approach for diffuse aortic disease is a safe method. The acceptable mortality at the first stage justifies the use of the classic ET technique and allows subsequent repair of the distal aorta. Long-term survival is increased when both stages are completed.
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Feb 2015
Inflammatory disease of the aorta: patterns and classification of giant cell aortitis, Takayasu arteritis, and nonsyndromic aortitis.
Inflammatory diseases of the aorta, other than those of known infective etiology, are poorly understood. We analyzed a large series of affected patients who had histologic diagnoses with a view to improving the classification of the extent of aortitis to enable a more targeted approach of treatment. ⋯ Aortitis continues to be a conundrum; however, good results are achievable with surgery. Intervention should be based on a clearer understanding of the histologic pattern and extent of disease, which helps in subsequent targeted disease management.
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Feb 2015
Editorial CommentPovidone iodine: the new solution for mesothelioma?