Descending Thoracic and Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysms: Open and Endovascular Repair

Abstract

The prevalence of descending thoracic aortic aneurysms (DTAs) and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) are described. Imaging techniques and classification is given. Preoperative evaluation is described in detail, as prior to proceeding with repair of a DTA or a TAAA, patients must be thoroughly evaluated medically to determine if they are physiologically fit enough for repair. Indications for repair, primarily relating to size of aneurysm, are listed for both DTAs and TAAAs. Repair options and management for DTAs now includes thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR); its outcomes, benefits, and drawbacks are discussed in detail. The discussion of TAAAs is similar, with indications for repair and surgical management options given: direct open repair; a debranching procedure with subsequent endograft repair; and branched or fenestrated endograft repair. A table lists the symptoms attributable to thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. Figures show the classification of DTAs; the evaluation of a patient with a thoracic aortic aneurysm; available thoracic endografts; anatomic restrictions for TEVAR; evaluation of a patient with a thoracoabdominal aneurysm; regional spinal cord hypothermic protection; distal aortic perfusion; visceral artery bypass; and a branched endograft. This review contains 8 figures, 3 tables, and 125 references.