Sunder-Plassmann L, Scharrer-Pamler R, Orend K H
Chirurgische Universitätsklinik, Ulm.
Langenbecks Arch Chir Suppl Kongressbd. 1996;113:851-6.
Prophylactic operations of aneurysms of the descending thoracic aorta have to take into consideration the expansion rate, probability of rupture and individual life expectancy of patients > 70 years of age as well as the individual risk of operation. Candidates for elective surgery are those with large aneurysms and low operative risk from low comorbidity who are expected to experience death from acute rupture unless operated on in a prophylactic way. Endoluminal stent grafts--though very attractive in this aortic segment--are still in statu nascendi and not recommended for general use.
