Penetrating injuries of the thoracic and abdominal aorta are controlled and repaired successfully with increasing frequency. Penetration of the suprarenal abdominal aorta has been associated with a high mortality rate because of difficult exposure and associated injuries. Between January 1969 and July 1973, 28 patients have undergone operative treatment for traumatic injury to the suprarenal aorta and other associated thoraco-abdominal injuries with 10 long-term survivors. Eight survivors sustained their injuries during the last 3 years, when a medial mobilization of the viscera was the preferred approach. Dacron prosthetic material was employed in seven patients, and in two there was ligation of the celiac axis. With satisfactory exposure, control of exsanguinating hemorrhage, and utilization of available vascular reconstructive techniques, successful management of this relatively inaccessible intra-abdominal lesion can be accomplished in an increasing number of patients.