Commentary on 'Systematic review and meta-analysis of the retroperitoneal versus the transperitoneal approach to the abdominal aorta'

摘要

In the last few decades the classical open surgical approach for infra-renal aneurysm repair has not undergone major changes. The principle of exposing the aorta, clamping it, and sewing in a vascular graft has not changed significantly. In this meta-analysis, the auteurs claim there may be clinical benefits to performing this surgery via a retroperitoneal (RP) approach. The reduction in mortality of elective infra-renal repairs has been substantial since it was developed. However, this reduction is a result of several factors, such as patient selection, medical treatment, aesthetic techniques, and improved care in intensive care units, and not the surgical technique perse.