Traumatic aorta injuries in a rural area: late manifestations and review of therapeutic aspects

Abstract

Traumatic thoracic aortic injuries (TTAI) are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. They are classified according to the extent of damage and computed tomography angiography has the highest sensitivity and specificity for identifying the degree of injury and potential associated lesions. Treatment strategies for TTAI are based on the type and extent of injury and associated lesions. The patient’s degree of stability can also help to define the choice of treatment, which can be conventional or endovascular surgery (EVAR) or even conservative management in selected cases. Among patients with adequate vascular anatomy, endovascular surgery is associated with better survival and fewer risks. The objective of this article is to describe a series of four cases followed up at a tertiary service in a Brazilian state that has few centers that provide high complexity care. Endovascular therapy was employed as the preferred method. All four patients had favorable outcomes, with no complications up to discharge, and are currently in outpatient follow-up.