15 Abr Aortopexy means lifting anteriorly the aorta and suturing it to the posterior surface of the sternum

The aim of this paper is to evaluate and discuss the literature relating to indications, surgical details and clinical results of aortopexy, usually performed for tracheomalacia (TM).

TM is a localized or generalized weakness of the tracheal wall which creates airway obstruction resulting in different degrees of symptoms. It can be isolated or associated with other anomalies such as anterior vascular compression, oesophageal atresia (OA) with tracheo-oesophageal fistula (TOF) or gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR). Although, in some cases, spontaneous improvement can occur, TM can also result in severe cough, respiratory distress episodes or “near-death” spells (acute life-threatening events, ALTE). Amongst several possible treatments, including tracheostomy and non invasive ventilation, airway stenting, and surgical approaches, aortopexy is a favoured option in many centres. As the anterior tracheal wall is attached through pre-tracheal fascia to the posterior aortic wall, the tracheal lumen is opened by aortopexy.