Aortic Atresia Combined with Right Aortic Arch

Abstract We present a case of an aortic atresia and a persistent right aortic arch with a retro‐aortic brachiocephalic vein. A left neo‐aortic arch was constructed using a reversed subclavian flap and a standard Norwood‐type patch enlargement to provide systemic outflow. The intercarotid section of the aortic arch was hypoplastic. Therefore, we maintained the patency of the right arch, thus creating a vascular ring. (J Card Surg 2012;27:754‐756)     

Aortic cannulation

Some problems of cannulation of the ascending aorta are demonstrated. Improved perfusion of the aortic arch is subsequently shown with a metal cannula having a basket-shaped tip. The design of the tip breaks the perfusing jet into four weaker jets, thus preventing differential perfusion of an arch vessel.     

Aortic injury

Two cases of aortic injury from trocar insertion during laparoscopic cholecystectomy are described and analyzed. The literature is reviewed and suggestions are offered for avoiding and treating this major complication. Both patients survived and are normal.