An approach to spinal cord protection during descending or thoracoabdominal aortic repairs

Background: During the past few years, after much research, progress has been made in reducing the risk of spinal cord injury after descending or thoracoabdominal aortic repairs. Methods: Based on that research I describe a method to reduce the risk of spinal cord injury. Results: Our data show that with this technique, less than 5% of our patients had a permanent injury whereby they are unable to walk. Conclusion: The use of intrathecal papaverine, cerebrospinal fluid drainage, hypothermia, and reimplantation of intercostal arteries from below T6 to and including L1 are recommended.