Computed tomography-detected abnormalities following conventional abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair

Abstract

Purpose: To determine how time since the operation influences vascular abnormalities following conventional infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair. Methods: In 47 patients computed tomography was performed 1 to 12 years following the aneurysm repair. Aortic diameters at different levels were measured and other abnormalities recorded. Results: Significant correlation was found between time since operation and diameter of the suprarenal aorta ( R=0.51, P<0.001) but not with aortic neck diameter ( R=−0.10, P=0.48) or diameter of the prosthetic graft ( R=0.07, P=0.66). However, measured diameters of graft and aortic neck showed a significant positive correlation ( R=0.40, P=0.005). Conclusions: Dilatation of the suprarenal aorta has a different pattern from aortic neck dilatation. The latter showed correlation with the diameter of the prosthetic graft. This may be of interest for future design of endovascular stent-grafts.