Elephant Trunk Procedure
Two-stage surgical approach for extensive aortic disease involving initial placement of a Dacron graft in the arch and descending aorta for later endovascular completion.
Full Definition
The elephant trunk procedure is a staged surgical technique developed for treating extensive aortic disease involving both the arch and descending thoracic aorta. In the first stage, performed via sternotomy, the ascending aorta and arch are replaced with a Dacron graft that extends into the descending aorta like an 'elephant's trunk.' This free-floating distal portion provides a landing zone for subsequent endovascular stent graft placement. The frozen elephant trunk modification combines the open arch repair with immediate stent graft deployment in the descending aorta. This approach reduces the risks associated with extensive single-stage operations while providing complete aortic reconstruction.
Usage
Usage note: Often modified as 'frozen elephant trunk' when combined with immediate endovascular component.
In Context
- "The elephant trunk procedure was selected to address the patient's extensive aortic aneurysm involving both the arch and descending thoracic aorta." — Preoperative consultation note
- "Six months after the initial elephant trunk repair, the patient returned for endovascular completion of the descending aortic reconstruction." — Follow-up surgical note