Graft replacement of the thoracic aorta with a sutureless technique.

A sutureless intraluminal graft requiring only ligature fixation was used for replacement of the thoracic aorta in 8 patients. The graft was deployed in the ascending and descending thoracic aorta as well as in the arch. It was used for aortic dissection and atherosclerotic aneurysms. Insertion was easy and relatively quick. Fixation was secure and without serious complications. Seven of the 8 patients became long-term survivors.