Epi-aortic ultrasound for cannulating the true lumen of a thoracic dissection — A case report

Abstract

The application of epi-aortic ultrasound to identify and cannulate the true lumen of a dissecting descending thoracic aneurysm for which left atrial–femoral partial bypass was required is described. Because of scarring and inflammation, cannulation of the femoral artery could not be accomplished. For placement of the cannula in the descending aorta, we used an epi-aortic probe to identify the true lumen of the dissection and to direct the guidewire appropriately. The aortic cannula was passed over the wire and its position was also confirmed by ultrasound. Left atrial to descending aorta bypass was initiated without complications.