Protocol for prevention of spinal cord ischemia after thoracoabdominal aortic surgery.

OBJECTIVE

This manuscript was written to present a systemic protocol for the prevention, early detection, and treatment of spinal cord ischemia following open and endovascular thoracoabdominal aortic operations.

METHODS

This protocol was a collaborative effort between surgeons, anesthesiologists and intensivists. It was implemented at our institution in November 2007. Nurses are trained to prevent, rapidly detect and ultimately aid in the treatment of spinal cord ischemia.

RESULTS

Implementation of this protocol has aided in prevention, detection and treatment of spinal cord ischemia in patients after open and endovascular thoracoabdominal aortic operations.

CONCLUSION

Standardized care and reliance on trained nursing staff to monitor for symptoms following thoracoabdominal aortic operations are safe and aid in the rapid detection, treatment and reversal of spinal cord ischemia.