Supplemental Perfusion Techniques for Aortic Arch Reconstruction, With Emphasis on Direct Cannulation of the Descending Aorta

The established techniques of deep hypothermia with circulatory arrest and regional cerebral perfusion expose infants and children to additional physiologic stress and deleterious effects which may adversely affect the outcome of operations involving reconstruction of the aortic arch. Alternative techniques to supplement perfusion support are an area of innovation today. The most effective adjunct for somatic perfusion during arch reconstruction is direct cannulation of the innominate artery and the descending aorta, with full flow at mild hypothermia distributed throughout the entire body just as it is during routine, single cannulation surgery with an intact aorta. Detailed facilitating techniques for descending aortic cannulation are discussed.