A new method for the treatment of graft infection in the thoracic aorta: In situ preservation

Background. We have developed a new method to control graft infection by a combination of two procedures, extensive disinfection followed by tissue flap implantation, allowing preservation of the original graft. Method. Soon after the diagnosis of graft infection was confirmed, the wound was re-explored, and debridement, irrigation and packing with sponges soaked with 10% iodine solution were employed. This procedure was repeated every 8 hours for the first 48 hours. For the second step, tissue flaps using omentum or muscle were implanted around the graft as well as in dead space, and the wound was closed primarily. Materials. A total of 6 patients were treated: 4 in the acute and 2 in the chronic phase of infection. The original procedures were a Bentall procedure + arch replacement (1), ascending aorta replacement + arch (3) and replacement of the descending aorta (2). In descending aorta cases, an extended thoracoplasty was concomitantly added to eliminate dead space in the pleural cavity. Results. Graft infections were controlled in all 6 patients. One hospital death unrelated to infection was encountered. Five patients were discharged, but 1 died of a stent-graft complication The follow-up period ranged from 4 months to 10 years. Conclusion. Our method of extensive disinfection followed by tissue flap coverage of the graft proved to be highly effective in controlling the serious complication of graft infection associated with surgery of the thoracic aorta. (C) 1999 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.