Total arch replacement for the treatment of a giant protruding thrombus in the thoracic aorta derived from an atherosclerotic lesion

A thoracic aortic thrombus is rare. The causes of this condition and the feasible options for its treatment remain controversial. Preventing embolic complications are the most important for the management of thoracic aortic thrombi. Herein, we report a case of a giant protruding thrombus in the thoracic aorta. We suggest total arch replacement (TAR) using an open stent graft (OSG) as a favorable management technique for thoracic aortic thrombi. We also recommend bilateral axillary artery cannulation to prevent cerebral infarction.