Modified "elephant trunk" procedure obliterating the false lumen in aortic dissection.

We describe a new application of the "elephant trunk" procedure for repairing aortic dissection. The false lumen of the distal aorta is obliterated between an external sheath of Teflon felt and an internal Dacron graft used as the "elephant trunk". This simple technique makes possible secure anastomosis with the distal friable tissue, and prevents suture hole leaks.