Brachiocephalic artery cannulation in proximal aortic surgery that requires circulatory arrest

Proximal arterial cannulation in thoracic aortic surgery-Literature review

Surgery on thoracic aorta is complex with a number of approaches being required depending on the pathology and anatomy that is specific to each patient and therefore, careful planning is required to ensure successful outcomes. Among the key factors that determine a satisfactory and safe operation is the choice of arterial cannulation site to establish cardiopulmonary bypass and deliver brain protection adequately. Direct proximal aortic cannulation is the gold-standard method for elective aortic root surgery and traditionally femoral arterial cannulation has been used in complex aortic surgeries such as redo or acute pathologies; however, axillary and innominate artery (IA) cannulation has evolved dramatically and several centers are currently using proximal cannulation sites as the default cannulation choice in elective and emergency settings of complex thoracic aortic surgeries. The evidence behind cannulating the IA is growing; however, it is yet to be well established through large studies or trial to confirm its superiority to other methods of central cannulation techniques.

Innominate artery cannulation in aortic surgery: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The innominate artery is considered an alternative site for establishing cardiopulmonary bypass in surgical procedures involving the thoracic aorta. This systematic review examines the use of innominate artery cannulation in aortic surgery.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was undertaken among the four major databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Ovid) to identify all studies that utilized innominate artery cannulation for establishing cardiopulmonary bypass and providing cerebral perfusion in thoracic aortic surgery. The data were reviewed up to September 2018.

RESULTS

Acute type A aortic dissection contributed to 36% (n = 818) of the total 2,290 patients. 31.5% (n = 719) underwent surgery on the aortic root only; 54.5% (n = 1246) had ascending and hemi-arch replacement, while 11.5% had total aortic arch replacement and 2.5% had a frozen elephant trunk inserted. Postoperative stroke rate was 1.25% (n = 28), temporary neurological deficit was 4.8% (n = 111). All-cause 30-day mortality rate was 2.7% (n = 61).

CONCLUSION

Innominate artery cannulation is a safe technique in patients who undergo thoracic aortic surgery. It can be utilized, in selected cases, as a reliable route for establishing cardiopulmonary bypass and maintaining cerebral perfusion.