Selective hypothermia in repair of aneurysms of the descending aorta.

Since 1991, we have used a simple, single-clamp technique with open distal anastomosis to repair aneurysms of the descending aorta. To enhance the results of the single-clamp technique in a recent high-risk patient, we used selective hypothermia, cooling primarily the tissues and organs supplied by the aorta and tributaries distal to the left subclavian artery. This preliminary report describes the technique and gives the rationale for its use.