Anaesthetic problems in cross clamping of the thoracic aorta

Cross clamping of the descending thoracic aorta is performed in this hospital for graft replacement of suprarenal aneurysms or during endarterectomy for extensive aortic occlusive disease. The anaesthetic management of nine patients is described and the surgical results are presented. Proximal aortic clamping and declamping lead to profound haemodynamic changes. Myocardial infarction, ventricular failure and even death may result. Renal preservation during clamping and massive blood transfusion are also problems of this surgical approach. The measures taken to ameliorate the consequences of proximal aortic clamping are discussed in detail.