The current status and prospect of catheter-based treatment of ascending aorta and aortic root diseases

Abstract

In recent years, the endovascular procedures has considerably evolved in concepts, technologies, materials and devices on cardiovascular surgery, and influenced the development and the future direction of cardiovascular surgery technology. Endovascular aorta repair is well recognized as the optimal therapy for patients presenting with acute or chronic pathology of distal aortic arch, descending aorta and thoraco-abdominal aorta. The use of catheter-based endovascular repair in the ascending aorta pathology including aneurysms, pseudoaneurysms, penetrating aortic ulcers and acute or chronic Stanford type A aortic dissection has been concerned and reported. Comparing to the open surgical procedures for ascending aorta and aortic root disease with high perioperative mortality and morbidity, the catheter-based endovascular repair has minimally invasive, expanding the alternative treatment of ascending aorta disease, especially for patients with high-risk profiles. However, due to the complex anatomy and functional properties, materials and devices, the use of this technique in ascending aorta and aortic root is still questionable. In addition, the long-term and reliable clinical research results is still inadequate, and the safety and effectiveness need further research.