Gunshot wounds of the suprarenal abdominal aorta.

Four cases of gunshot wounds to the suprarenal abdominal aorta are described. All required prosthetic graft replacement including one or more visceral arterial branches. Two patients survived. Factors important in survival were rapid transportation permitting early resuscitation and retroperitoneal tamponade which delayed exsanguination and permitted stabilization with systematic management. The major problem in management of gunshot wounds of the suprarenal abdominal aorta is limitation of visceral ischemia, particularly hepatic and renal. Special adjuncts such as local renal hypothermia, as used in these cases, or bypass techniques are necessary and should be available before exploration of a periaortic hematoma due to gunshot wound in this area.