Experience of bypass grafting to the celiac, superior mesenteric, and both renal arteries for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm during the occurrence of the Great East Japan Earthquake

Abstract

　We were performing a bypass graft to the celiac, superior mesenteric, and both renal arteries for a thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm at our hospital when the Great East Japan Earthquake occurred. Although it was difficult to decide whether to continue or cancel the surgery, as we were then bypassing the renal artery, we canceled the surgery, sutured the abdomen, woke the patient up from anesthesia, and exited the operation theatre.

　The decision will vary depending on the location of the hospital, damage to the building, and state of progress of the surgery when the disaster occurs. I hope that sharing my experience of this case will aid in improving the response following a disaster.