Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound versus Computed Tomography Angiography in the Follow-Up of the Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm with Endovascular Techniques

Abstract

In recent years, the advent of endovascular techniques has made possible the treatment of high-risk surgical patients. Nevertheless, the risk of short- and long-term complications is not insignificant. A surveillance program is therefore required to identify any possible complications and to monitor the efficacy of the treatment over time. In the various studies concerning follow-up after endovascular treatment for aortic aneurysm, computed tomography angiography is considered the “gold-standard.” Duplex ultrasonography provides accurate information regarding the patency of the stent graft and the evolution of the aneurysm sac size but is characterized by low sensitivity and specificity in the identification of endoleaks, which ranges from 70% to 90%. The use of contrast agents seems to increase the sensitivity in the identification of endoleaks. We evaluated the efficacy of contrast agents in the follow-up of patients after endovascular treatment and to compare results obtained from computed tomography angiography.