In vivo crushing of an aortic stent enables endovascular repair of a large infrarenal aortic pseudoaneurysm.

Abstract

To report an unusual approach to endovascular exclusion of a large aortic pseudoaneurysm. A 63-year-old male had an unsuccessful endovascular repair of an aortic anastomotic pseudoaneurysm that left an expanded, uncovered Palmaz stent lying obliquely within the aorta. After nearly 3 years, the pseudoaneurysm enlarged to 7 cm, and the patient became symptomatic. Repair of the pseudoaneurysm was accomplished by crushing the indwelling stent to allow placement of a stent-graft. Malpositioned stents that are hindering an endoluminal procedure may be crushed against the arterial wall in vivo to facilitate passage of endovascular instruments or devices.