Nutritional risk screening may be able to predict mortality and morbidity after surgery for colorectal cancer. However, the diverse results reflect either the imprecision of the tests or the small sample size.

Both MMP-2 and -9 and NIIINP failed to show relevance as serum markers for aortic dilatation. Our results are, therefore, in contradiction to previous published results. AAAs cannot be diagnosed with a simple blood test.

The Angio-Seal device should not be used for closure of the superficial femoral artery and in patients with severe arteriosclerosis. The application of arteriography as well as the use of ultrasound-guided puncture is advisable. In all cases, surgical intervention was successful and an adequate therapy for management of complications.

Self-made bovine pericardial tube grafts can be crafted to almost any size and adjusted to complex anatomic requirements. The use was feasible in various situations and was associated with good preliminary results concerning patency and reinfection.

In carefully selected patient populations, the resection of locally advanced tumours or infectious processes involving the aortic wall can be facilitated by thoracic endovascular aortic repair prior to resection.