Surgical management of infected aneurysms

Abstract

A complete series of eighty-four infected aneurysms obtained from the literature and personal experience, and by questionnaire has been analyzed for factors which influence the success of repair. Ligation of the artery and resection of the aneurysm are preferred whenever possible. Resection of the aneurysm and arterial anastomosis or aneurysmorrhaphy are preferred whenever arterial continuity must be restored. The necessity of substitution for the loss of arterial substance increases the likelihood of failure. Venous autografts are suggested as a suitable means of reconstruction whenever they may be reinforced by surrounding tissue. The term “infected aneurysm” appears preferable to the more limited term “mycotic aneurysm.” Infected aneurysms can be further subdivided into those previously called mycotic and those which result from an arterial suture line. This division seems important because of the specific problems represented by each.