elephant trunk procedure
A two-stage surgical technique for extensive thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair involving staged reconstruction.
Full Definition
The elephant trunk procedure is a sophisticated two-stage surgical approach for treating extensive thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms or complex aortic pathology. The first stage involves replacement of the ascending aorta and aortic arch with a graft that includes a 'trunk' extension into the descending aorta. The second stage, performed weeks to months later, involves replacement of the descending and abdominal aorta, with anastomosis to the previously placed graft trunk. This technique reduces the operative risk by dividing a complex procedure into manageable stages.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish between conventional and frozen elephant trunk procedures in surgical documentation.
In Context
- "The first stage of the elephant trunk procedure was completed with replacement of the ascending aorta and total arch." — Operative report
- "Six months following the initial elephant trunk repair, the patient returned for completion of the descending aortic reconstruction." — Surgical planning note