We experienced one case of surgical treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm using retroperitoneal approach. The transperitoneal route has been the standard surgical approach for elective and emergency treatment of aneurysmal or occlusive disease.
Among
its cited advantages for aortic reconstruction are familarity with the exposure, easy access to the infrarenal aorta and iliac vessels, possibility of simultaneous inspection of intra-abdominal viscera, and speed of opening and closure.
Despite the proved versatility of the transperitoneal approach, it is commonly associated with prolonged ileus, increased third space fluid loss, and significant pulmonary complications. The retroperitoneal approach, on the other hand, has many
advantages; excellent exposure for the repair of juxtarenal or suprarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms and visceral vessel occlusive disease, fewer postoperative complications, decreased postoperative third-space fluid losses from intraoperative
evaporation and ileus, and improved postoperative pulmonary function. Atherosclerosis was most common cause of abdominal aortic aneurysm. Dacron graft(18mm) was replaced successfully.
Postoperative course was uneventful and he was discharged in good condition. (Korean J Thoracic Cardiovas Surg 1994; 27:492-495)
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