Aortic bifurcation graft replacement is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged or diseased portion of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The graft is typically made of a synthetic material, such as polyester or Dacron, and is sewn in place to replace the damaged section of the artery.
While aortic graft replacement is generally a safe and effective procedure, there is a small risk of mechanical breakdown of the graft over time. This can occur due to a variety of factors, such as wear and tear on the graft material, damage to the graft during surgery, or an infection that weakens the graft.
If a mechanical breakdown of the aortic graft occurs, it can lead to serious complications, such as bleeding, aortic rupture, or decreased blood flow to the organs. Symptoms of a breakdown may include sudden onset of severe abdominal or back pain, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness.
In summary, while aortic bifurcation graft replacement is a generally safe and effective procedure, a mechanical breakdown of the graft can occur over time. Immediate medical attention is necessary if a breakdown is suspected, and steps can be taken to lower the risk of a breakdown occurring in the first place.