[Comparison of mediansternotomy approach vs left thoracotomy approach for distal aortic arch aneurysm, and their postoperative complications].

We performed surgery for distal arch aneurysm in 22 patients; through a mediansternotomy in 11 patients (group M), and through a left thoracotomy approach in 11 patients (group L). If the distal position of an aneurysm was located at the pulmonary hilus without severe calcification of the ascending aorta, the mediansternotomy approach was chosen, whereas if we suspected that distal anastomosis would be difficult due to severe calcification of the descending aorta or aortic dissection type B, the left thoracotomy approach was selected. The mean cardiopulmonary bypass time (min.) was 229 +/- 56 in group M and 225 +/- 47 in group L, the mean circulation arrest time (min.) was 39 +/- 19 in group M and 31 +/- 5 in group L, and the mean lowest temperature (degree C) was 22 +/- 1 in group M and 20 +/- 2 in group L. No severe cerebral or cardiac complications developed in any patients. The hospital mortality was 9% (1/11) in group M and 9% (1/11) in group L. Following discharge, 8 (73%) patients from group M and 9 (92%) from group L resumed a normal lifestyle. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups and the operative results of both approaches proved satisfactory. Therefore our indications for each surgical approach to treat distal arch aneurysm seemed appropriate.