Common Iliac Artery Diameter Research Articles

Predictive Factors for Iliac Limb Occlusions After Endovascular Abdominal Aneurysm Repair: Determined from Aortoiliac Anatomy, Endovascular Procedures, and Aneurysmal Remodeling.

Iliac limb occlusion (ILO) is a serious complication of endovascular abdominal aneurysm repair (EVAR). This study aimed to identify predictive factors for ILO derived from aortoiliac morphology, endovascular procedure-related parameters, and aneurysmal remodeling characteristics. Patient demographics, pre-EVAR anatomical characteristics of the aneurysm, endovascular procedure details, and post-EVAR aneurysmal remodeling outcomes were analyzed and compared using univariate analysis. Statistically significant factors were subsequently subjected to Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analyses. Between January 2013 and April 2022, 66 patients were included in this study. Fourteen patients presented with ILO and were compared with 52 control patients with patent endograft limb over at least 1-year of follow-up. The tortuosity indices of the common iliac artery (CIA) and endograft iliac limb to vessel oversizing were significantly larger in the ILO group than in the patent endograft limb group. The CIA index of tortuosity ≥1.08, and endograft iliac limb to vessel oversizing ≥18.8% were independent predictors for ILO. During the follow-up of all patients, the proximal aortic neck and CIA diameters increased, aneurysm sac diameter decreased, and aortic neck and aortic length increased. The aortoiliac length increased over time in patients with patent endograft limb but not in patients with ILO. A change in the lowest renal artery-left iliac bifurcation distance ≦0.07 mm increased the risk of ILO. ILO is predisposed to occur when the CIA index of tortuosity ≥1.08 and endograft iliac limb to vessel oversizing ≥18.8% are present. Significant aortoiliac remodeling, including proximal aortic neck dilatation, neck straightening, aneurysmal sac regression, iliac artery enlargement, and aortic lengthening, occurs after EVAR. Aortoiliac elongation was observed in patients with patent endograft limb, but not in patients with ILO. ILO was associated with a change in the lowest renal artery-left iliac bifurcation from the postoperative measurements ≦ 0.07 mm.

Identification of Clinical Heterogeneity and Construction of Prediction Models for Novel Subtypes in Patients with Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: An Unsupervised Machine Learning Study

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is one of the most common diseases in vascular surgery. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) can effectively treat AAA. It is essential to accurately classify patients with AAA who need EVAR. We enrolled 266 patients with AAA who underwent EVAR. Unsupervised machine learning algorithms (UMLAs) were used to cluster subjects according to similar clinical characteristics. To verify UMLA's accuracy, the operative and postoperative results of the two clusters were analyzed. Finally, a prediction model was developed using binary logistic regression analysis. UMLAs could correctly classify patients based on their clinical characteristics. Patients in Cluster 1 were older, had a higher BMI, and were more likely than patients in Cluster 2 to develop pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cerebrovascular disease. The aneurysm diameter, neck angulation, diameter and angulation of bilateral common iliac arteries, and incidence of iliac artery aneurysm were significantly higher in cluster 1 patients than in cluster 2. Cluster 1 had a longer operative time, a longer length of stay in the intensive care unit and hospital, a higher medical expense, and a higher incidence of reintervention. A nomogram was established based on the BMI, neck angulation, left common iliac artery (LCIA) diameter and angulation, and right common iliac artery (RCIA) diameter and angulation. The nomogram was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, with an area under the curve of 0.933 (95% confidence interval, 0.902-0.963) and a C-index of 0.927. Our findings demonstrate that UMLAs can be used to rationally classify a heterogeneous cohort of patients with AAA effectively, and the analysis of postoperative variables also verified the accuracy of UMLAs. We established a prediction model for new subtypes of AAA, which can improve the quality of management of patients with AAA.

Identifying Patients at High Risk for Post-EVAR Aneurysm Sac Growth.

Post-EVAR (endovascular aneurysm repair) aneurysm sac growth can be seen as therapy failure as it is a risk factor for post-EVAR aneurysm rupture. This study sought to identify preoperative patient predictors for developing post-EVAR aneurysm sac growth. A systematic review was conducted to select potential predictive preoperative factors for post-EVAR sac growth (including a total of 34.886 patients), which were evaluated by a retrospective single-center analysis of patients undergoing EVAR between 2009 and 2019 (N=247) with pre-EVAR computed tomography scans and at least 1 year follow-up. The primary study outcome was post-EVAR abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) sac enlargement (≥5 mm diameter increase). Multivariate Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier survival curves were constructed. Potential correlative factors for post-EVAR sac growth included in the cohort analysis were age, sex, anticoagulants, antiplatelets, renal insufficiency, anemia, low thrombocyte count, pulmonary comorbidities, aneurysm diameter, neck diameter, neck angle, neck length, configuration of intraluminal thrombus, common iliac artery diameter, the number of patent lumbar arteries, and a patent inferior mesenteric artery. Multivariate analysis showed that infrarenal neck angulation (hazard ratio, 1.014; confidence interval (CI), 1.001-1.026; p=0.034) and the number of patent lumbar arteries (hazard ratio, 1.340; CI, 1.131-1.588; p<0.001) were associated with post-EVAR growth. Difference in estimated freedom from post-EVAR sac growth for patients with ≥4 patent lumbar arteries versus <4 patent lumbar arteries became clear after 2 years: 88.5% versus 100%, respectively (p<0.001). Of note, 31% of the patients (n=51) with ≥4 patent lumbar arteries (n=167) developed post-EVAR sac growth. In our cohort, the median maximum AAA diameter was 57 mm (interquartile range [IQR] = 54-62) and the median postoperative follow-up time was 54 months (IQR = 34-79). In all, 23% (n=57) of the patients suffered from post-EVAR growth. The median time for post-EVAR growth was 37 months (IQR = 24-63). In 46 of the 57 post-EVAR growth cases (81%), an endoleak was observed; 2.4% (n=6) of the patients suffered from post-EVAR rupture. The total mortality in the cohort was 24% (n=60); 4% (n=10) was AAA related. This study showed that having 4 or more patent lumbar arteries is an important predictive factor for postoperative sac growth in patients undergoing EVAR. This study strongly suggests that having 4 or more patent lumbar arteries should be included in preoperative counseling for EVAR, in conjunction to the instructions for use (IFU).

Iliac Artery Tortuosity Index in Chinese Patients with or without Aortic Artery Aneurysms and Related Influencing Factors

Iliac artery tortuosity is an important anatomical factor that influences the endovascular repair of aortic artery aneurysms. The influencing factors of the iliac artery tortuosity index (TI) have not been well studied. TI of iliac arteries and related factors in Chinese patients with and without abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) were studied in this study. One hundred and ten consecutive patients with AAA and 59 patients without AAA were included. For patients with AAA, the diameter of the AAA was 51.9±13.3mm (24.7-92.9mm). Those without AAA had no history of definite arterial diseases and came from a cohort of patients diagnosed with urinary calculi. The central lines of the common iliac artery (CIA) and external iliac artery were depicted. The actual length and the straight distance were measured and used to calculate the TI (actual length/straight distance). Common demographic factors and anatomical parameters were analyzed to identify any related influencing factors. For patients without AAA, the total TI of the left and right side was 1.16±0.14 and 1.16±0.13, respectively (P=0.48). For patients with AAAs, the total TI in the left and right side was 1.36±0.21 and 1.36±0.19, respectively (P=0.87). The TI in external iliac artery was more severe than that in CIA both in patients with and without AAAs (P<0.01). Age was the only demographic factor found to be associated with TI in patients with AAA (Pearson's correlation coefficient r≈0.3, P<0.01) and without AAA (r≈0.6, P<0.01). For anatomical parameters, the diameter was positively associated with the total TI (left side: r=0.41, P<0.01; right side: r=0.34, P<0.01). The ipsilateral CIA diameter was also associated with the TI (left side: r=0.37, P<0.01; right side: r=0.31, P<0.01). The length of the iliac arteries was not associated with age or AAA diameter. Reduction of the vertical distance of the iliac arteries may be a common underlying reason for age and AAA. Tortuosity of the iliac arteries was probably an age-related problem in normal individuals. It was also positively correlated with the diameter of the AAA and the ipsilateral CIA in patients with AAA. Attention should be paid to the evolution of iliac artery tortuosity and its influence when treating AAAs.

Midterm Results of a Surgeon-Modified Device to Preserve the Flow of the Internal Iliac Artery During Endovascular Repair of Aneurysm: Single-Center Experiences

During endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), commercial iliac branch devices (IBDs) have become an inescapable alternative for preserving antegrade internal iliac artery (IIA) blood flow. Due to the different morphological features of aneurysms, commercial IBDs may not be suitable for all patients. Reported experience with the implantation of the new surgeon-modified IBD (sm IBD) is limited. This investigation describes the indications, efficacy, and safety of the sm IBD. Data from consecutive elective implantations of IBDs in patients between March 2011 and May 2021 in a single center were incorporated. The sm IBDs were indicated in patients with common iliac artery aneurysms (CIAAs) and with a challenging anatomy and in those patients with or without abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Fifteen patients (15 male, mean age 67.6±7.9years) were included. Fifteen sm IBDs were implanted in 1 procedure (100%). Fourteen (93.3%) patients had simultaneous endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and 1 (6.7%) patient previously had a bilateral CIAAs repair by EVAR. The mean common iliac artery (CIA) diameter was 36.6±12.5mm. Technical success was obtained in all patients (100%). The median operation time was 189.7±78.6min, with a median fluoroscopy time of 45.3±15.9min. Axillary artery access was used in 11 (73.3%) procedures. The mean total hospital stay was 5.6±2.8days, and the postoperative follow-up was 35.4months (range 2-120). The estimated IIA bridge stent patency at 1year after operation was 100% and 85.7%±13.2% 5years postoperatively. One (6.7%) IIA branch was occluded, and this patient remained asymptomatic. One patient (6.7%) needed reintervention, and another (6.7%) patient had type II leakage, which is currently under close surveillance. Using an IBD to maintain the pelvic blood flow is an effective and feasible intravascular technique, especially for patients with an abnormal iliac artery anatomy. This novel technique has similar midterm procedural success rate compared to the use of commercial IBDs. Therefore, these devices are more suitable for patients with certain anatomic challenges and can be used as an alternative treatment.

Outcomes of a pilot abdominal aortic aneurysm screening program in a population of Central Greece.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening has contributed in the decrease of aneurysm related and all-cause mortality. The objective of our study is to present our experience from the only existing pilot AAA screening program in Greece. Men from both urban and rural areas in Central Greece, aged >60 years old without a previously known diagnosis of AAA were invited through the public primary health care units to participate to a screening program. Demographics, comorbidities, family history and anthropometric data were recorded. Aortic diameter values of >30 mm and common iliac artery (CIA) diameter values of >18 mm, were defined as aneurysmatic by ultrasound. The screening program included 1256 individuals (1256/1814; response rate 69%). The incidence of AAA and CIA aneurysm was 2% (25/1256) and 2.3% (29/1256), respectively. Increased age (P<0.042), tobacco use (P<0.006) and its duration (P<0.008) were related to higher incidence of AAA, while diabetes mellitus to lower one (P<0.048). Multivariate analysis showed that AAA was associated to longer duration of smoking (1.05, CI: 0.02-6.6; P=0.01). Statin and antiplatelet therapy were administrated in 40% (10/25) and 44% (11/25), respectively of individuals with AAA. An additional analysis was provided between subjects with AD of 25-30 mm and AD <25 mm. In multivariate analysis, no factor was associated to AD of 25-30 mm. The incidence of AAA and CIA aneurysm in Central Greece is 2% and 2.3%, respectively. Smoking duration was the strongest associated factor with AAA incidence. This provides to healthcare policy makers a strong valid point for the prevention strategies.

Evaluation of factors associated with limb thrombus formation after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair

BackgroundLimb thrombus formation is a complication that can occur after endovascular aortic repair (EVAR), and its clinical significance has continued to be debated. Our objective was to report the incidence of limb thrombus after EVAR and determine the association of specific demographic, anatomic, and/or graft variables. MethodsA retrospective analysis of EVAR patients at a single tertiary center between January 2010 and December 2018 was performed to determine the limb thrombus rate. Demographic, graft, and anatomic variables were analyzed for an association with limb thrombus. ResultsA total of 301 patients were included. The average follow-up was 27.6 ± 4.9 months. The mean age was 76.5 ± 0.5 years, and 85% were men. Limb thrombus occurred in 22 patients (7.3%). Of these 22 patients, 11 (50.0%) had had occlusive limb thrombus, 14 (63.6%) were symptomatic, and 17 (77.3%) had required intervention. The patients with limb thrombus were younger (69.8 ± 1.3 years vs 77.1 ± 0.5 years; P < .0001) and more likely to be smokers (10.2% vs 5.2%; P = .10). The incidence of limb thrombus with the Alpha graft (10.7%; Cook Medical Inc, Bloomington, IN) was compared with that with non-Cook grafts (4.0%; P = .07). The average common iliac artery diameter for patients with and without limb thrombus was 14.1 mm and 16.1 mm, respectively (P < .01). Right-sided limb thrombus was more likely in smaller right iliac arteries (14.7 ± 0.9 cm vs 17.0 ± 0.6 cm; P < .05), with a similar finding on the left (13.6 ± 0.9 cm vs 15.2 ± 0.4 cm; P = .13). Unilateral limb thrombus was almost twice as likely on the main body side than on the contralateral side (11 vs 6). Limb thrombus was not associated with aortoiliac disease (odds ratio [OR], 1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.37-4.62), limb extension (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.06-3.62), or nonmatching limb heights (OR, 1.36; 95% CI, 0.54-3.43). Limb thrombus was also not associated with increased 30-day mortality (P > .05). ConclusionsLimb thrombus formation is a complication that can occur after EVAR (7.3%). In our study, limb thrombus was seen more frequently in younger patients and those who smoked. Cook Alpha grafts had a thrombus formation rate of 10.7%, which was not significantly higher than that with other brands. Limb thrombus was more likely in smaller iliac arteries and on the main body side.

Preliminary Understanding of Abdominal Aortic and Common Iliac Artery Diameters on Abdominal CT in Ethiopian Adults: A Facility-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

Mean aortic and common iliac artery diameters are the best indicators for the diagnosis of aortic and iliac ectasia and aneurysm, as well as the appropriate selection of angiographic catheter size and grafts for endovascular procedures. Currently, there is a lack of evidence regarding the normal abdominal aortic and common iliac artery diameters in Ethiopian adults. This study aimed to assess the mean diameter and associated factors of the abdominal aorta and common iliac arteries on abdominal CT scans of Ethiopian adults visiting Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Institution-based prospective cross-sectional study was conducted. A convenience sampling method was employed. Data were collected from consecutive eligible adults who came for abdominal CT scans during the study period, using interviewer-administered structured questionnaires. The data was cleaned and analyzed using SPSS version 22. Student t-test and Pearson correlation were used to perform statistical analysis and the results were presented using tables and figures. There were a total of 136 study participants of whom eighty-one(59.6%) were females and fifty-five (40.4%) were males. The mean age was 48.5 ± 13 with a range of 23 to77 years. The mean transverse diameter of the aorta at the aortic hiatus (T12)level was 2.30 ± 0.25cm in males and 2.03±0.19cm in females. The mean transverse diameter of the suprarenal aorta was 2.04 ± 0.21cm in males and 1.83 ± 0.21 cm in females while the infrarenal one was 1.77 ± 0.16cm in males and 1.54 ± 0.15cm in females. Participants who are male and older with large body Surface Area were found to have relatively larger aortic and iliac diameters. In this study, the mean diameter of the aorta and common iliac artery was significantly associated with age, sex, and BSA.

Identification of the Risk Factors for the Failure of Ureteral Access Sheath Placement.

Purpose Insertion of a ureteral access sheath (UAS) may fail in some patients in retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS), and this study aimed to seek preoperative risk factors for the failure of 12/14F UAS placement. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 260 consecutive patients who underwent RIRS between May 2020 and March 2022 at our institution. Data on patient and stone characteristics and several computed tomography (CT)-based measurements were collected and compared between the success and failure UAS placement groups. Results Twenty-nine (11.2%) patients failed to insert the UAS. Age, gender, height, weight, stone side, stone location, length of history, and computed tomography (CT)-based parameters were not significant differences between the two groups. Univariate logistic regression analyses showed sex (female/male) (odds ratio: 0.287 and 95% CI [0.107, 0.722], p=0.013), length of history 15–31 days (odds ratio: 0.315 and 95% CI [0.102, 0.974], p=0.045), length of history >31 days (odds ratio: 0.202 and 95% CI [0.051, 0.805], p=0.023), and diameter of the ipsilateral common iliac artery (odds ratio: 1.285 and 95% CI [1.018, 1.623], p=0.035) were associated with UAS placement. Conclusion Our study indicated that males, the short length of history, and the short diameter of the ipsilateral common iliac artery were the risk factors for the failure of UAS placement.

548 A 10-Year Longitudinal Cohort Study Assessing Growth Rates and Surveillance Intervals for Common Iliac Artery Aneurysms

Abstract Aim The European Society for Vascular Surgery defines common iliac artery (CIA) aneurysms as greater than 1.8cm in men and 1.5cm in women. Their reported growth rate is 1–4mm/year depending on their diameter. This study aimed to assess the natural history and surveillance intervals for CIA aneurysms as intervention threshold is based on low-quality evidence. Method Patients diagnosed with an IAA at a single vascular centre between 1st January 2010 and 31st August 2021 were identified from a prospectively collected departmental database and Caldicott-approved data collection performed. The primary outcomes included diameter-based mean aneurysm growth rates and median surveillance intervals. Statistical analysis with SPSS® was performed using chi-squared tests. Results Of the 203 patients included, 90.6% were men and median (IQR) age at detection was 77 (71–83). IAA were located in the CIA (85.2%), IIA (21.7%) and EIA (2.0%) with the majority being asymptomatic (78.8%). CT was most frequently used as the imaging modality for IAA surveillance (66.3%), followed by ultrasound scan (29.8%) and MRA (3.9%). Growth rate for CIA aneurysms measuring 1.0–1.9cm were -2.1mm/year, 2.0–2.9cm were 0.8mm/year, 3.0–3.9cm were 3.5mm/year, 4.0–4.9cm were 9.4mm/year, 5.0–5.9cm were 2.9mm/year and &amp;gt;6.0cm were 13.8mm/year. Median surveillance intervals for CIA aneurysms at 1.0–1.9cm were 12-monthly, 2.0–2.9cm were 11-monthly, 3.0–3.9cm were 5-monthly, 4.0–4.9cm were 5-monthly, 5.0–5.9cm were 5.5-monthly and &amp;gt;6.0cm were 14.5-monthly. Mean(SD) CIA diameter at rupture was 4.6 (2.4)cm. Conclusions CIA aneurysms demonstrate faster growth rates as they enlarge and may require more frequent clinical assessments, surveillance, and consideration for repair prior to rupture.

O072 A 10-year longitudinal cohort study assessing growth rates and surveillance intervals for common iliac artery aneurysms

Abstract Introduction European Society for Vascular Surgery defines common iliac artery (CIA) aneurysms as greater than 1.8cm in men and 1.5cm in women. Reported growth rate is 1–4mm/year depending on their diameter. This study assessed the natural history and surveillance intervals for CIA aneurysms as intervention threshold is based on low-quality evidence. Methods Patients with an IAA at a single vascular centre between 1st January 2010 and 31st August 2021 were identified from a prospectively collected departmental database and Caldicott-approved data collection performed. The primary outcomes included diameter-based mean aneurysm growth rates and median surveillance intervals. Statistical analysis with SPSS® was performed using chi squared tests. Results Of 203 patients included, 90.6% were men and median (IQR) age at detection was 77(71–83). IAA were located in the CIA (85.2%), IIA (21.7%) and EIA (2.0%) with the majority being asymptomatic (78.8%). CT was most frequently used as the imaging modality for IAA surveillance (66.3%), followed by ultrasound scan (29.8%) and MRA (3.9%). Growth rate for CIA aneurysms measuring 1.0–1.9cm were -2.1mm/year, 2.0–2.9cm were 0.8mm/year, 3.0–3.9cm were 3.5mm/year, 4.0–4.9cm were 9.4mm/year, 5.0–5.9cm were 2.9mm/year and &amp;gt;6.0cm were 13.8mm/year. Median surveillance intervals for CIA aneurysms at 1.0–1.9cm were 12-monthly, 2.0–2.9cm were 11-monthly, 3.0–3.9cm were 5-monthly, 4.0–4.9cm were 5-monthly, 5.0–5.9cm were 5.5-monthly and &amp;gt;6.0cm were 14.5-monthly. Mean (SD) CIA diameter at rupture was 4.6 (2.4)cm. Conclusion CIA aneurysms demonstrate faster growth rates as they enlarge and may require more frequent clinical assessments, surveillance and consideration for repair prior to rupture. Take-home message CIA aneurysms demonstrate faster growth rates as they enlarge and may require more frequent clinical assessments, surveillance and consideration for repair prior to rupture.

Outcomes of the Gore Excluder Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis for Japanese Patients With Aortoiliac Aneurysms: A Study Based on J-Preserve Registry

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical utility of the Gore Excluder iliac branch endoprosthesis (IBE) for Japanese patients with aortoiliac aneurysms. Materials and Methods: This was a multicenter retrospective cohort study (J-Preserve Registry). Patients undergoing endovascular aortic repair using the Gore Excluder IBE for aortoiliac aneurysms between August 2017 and June 2020 were enrolled. Data pertaining to the baseline and anatomical characteristics, technical details, and clinical outcomes were collected from each institution. The primary endpoints were technical success, IBE-related complications, and reinterventions. Secondary endpoints were mortality, aneurysm size change, and reintervention during follow-up. Technical success was defined as accurate deployment of the IBE without type Ib, Ic, or III endoleaks on the IBE sides on completion angiography. A change in aneurysm size of 5 mm or more was taken to be a significant change. Results: We included 141 patients with 151 IBE implantations. Sixty-five IBE implantations (43.0%) had at least one instruction for use violation. Twenty-two patients (15.6%) required internal iliac artery (IIA) embolization for external iliac artery extension on the contralateral side. Of 151 IBE implantations, 19 exhibited IIA branch landing zones due to IIA aneurysms. Mean maximum and proximal common iliac artery (CIA) diameters were 32.9±9.9 mm and 20.5±6.9 mm, respectively. The mean CIA length was 59.1±17.1 mm. The IIA landing diameter and length were 9.0±2.3 mm and 33.8±14.6 mm. The overall technical success rate was 96.7%. There were no significant differences in IBE-related complications (2.3% vs 5.3%, p=0.86) or IBE-related reinterventions (1.5% vs 5.3%, p=0.33) between the IIA trunk and IIA branch landing groups. The mean follow-up period was 635±341 days. The all-cause mortality rate was 5.0%. There were no aneurysm-related deaths or ruptures during the follow-up. Most patients (95.7%) had sac stability or shrinkage. Conclusion: The Gore Excluder IBE was safe and effective for Japanese patients in the midterm. Extending the IIA device into the distal branches of the IIA was acceptable, which may permit extending indications for endovascular aortic aneurysm repair of aortoiliac aneurysms to more complex lesions. Clinical Impact This study suggests clinical benefits of the Gore Excluder IBE for Japanese patients, despite 43% of the IBE implantations having at least one IFU violation.

The Impact of Iliac Artery Anatomy on Distal Landing Zone After EVAR During the 12-Month Follow-Up

Proximal sealing zone has been the main interest in endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR), although the distal landing zone remodeling may also affect EVAR durability. The aim of this study was to assess iliac anatomy and its potential impact on distal landing zone adverse events after EVAR during the 12-month follow-up. A prospective data collection of patients treated with standard bifurcated EVAR devices for abdominal aortic aneurysm was undertaken between 2017 and 2019. Patients that received extension to the external iliac artery were excluded. Follow-up included computed tomography angiography (CTA) at the 1st and 12th month postoperatively. The common iliac artery (CIA) diameter was assessed in three levels: origin (just below the aortic bifurcation), distally (just above the iliac bifurcation) and the middle of the distance between these two landmarks. Iliac angle, tortuosity indexes, relining and oversizing were also analyzed. Distal landing zone-related adverse events were any limb related re-intervention, endoleak type Ib, graft migration, limb stenosis, or occlusion. In total, 268 iliac limbs (134 patients) were included. In all three levels, the mean iliac artery diameters increased at 12-month follow-up. At the origin of the CIA, the diameter increased from 18.7±10.5mm to 19.9±9.4mm (P=0.04), at the middle portion of the CIA, the diameter changed significantly from 15.5±5.1mm to 17.4±5.4mm (P<0.001) and at the distal CIA, from 14.6±3.3mm to 15.1±3.9mm (P=0.03). The iliac angle remained stable (P=0.14) while the CIA index decreased significantly from 1.17±0.13 to 1.11±0.09 (P<0.001). The mean value of oversizing was 21.5±14.5% and affected distal iliac diameter increase (P<0.001). The composite outcome of distal landing zone adverse events was not associated to diameter changes at any level. In 57 cases, a distal iliac diameter ≥18mm was recorded. The estimated oversizing was lower (16.3±11.8%) compared to <18mm arteries (22.5±14.9%, P=0.01). At 12-month follow-up, iliac diameters remained stable in the ≥18mm group. Endoleak type Ib was more common in iliac arteries ≥18mm [3 (5.3%) vs. 1 (0.5%) (P=0.04)] at 12-months. Post-EVAR iliac artery dilation does not seem to have an impact on distal landing zone adverse events during the 12-month follow-up. Aggressive oversizing may be related to iliac dilation. EVAR patients with iliac arteries ≥18mm are at higher risk for ET Ib.

A cross-sectional study on the anatomic feasibility of iliac side branch grafts in a real-world setting

ObjectiveThe aim of this cross-sectional, single-center study was to analyze the feasibility of different commercially available iliac branch devices in Europe in a cohort of patients with aorto-iliac aneurysms. MethodsAll patients with aorto-iliac or iliac aneurysms that required iliac aneurysm repair, between 2017 and 2021, were included. Morphologic data was analyzed using computed tomography angiograms. The main outcome was the feasibility of each endoprosthesis (Cook ZBIS, Gore Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis [IBE], and JOTEC E-Iliac) according to the manufacturer’s instructions for use. Secondary outcomes were feasibility in all three devices, in any device, and with adjunctive procedures (liberal criteria). Additionally, a comparative analysis of all three grafts was performed to analyze differences in feasibility. ResultsOverall, 119 iliac aneurysms in 101 patients were included. The mean age was 71 ± 11 years, and 91.6% were male. Feasibility was 52.9% for Cook ZBIS, 33.6% for Gore IBE, and 26.9% for the JOTEC E-Iliac device. A total of 65.5% of patients were feasible with at least one device, whereas only 10.1% complied with all three devices. The main reasons for lack of feasibility were a short common iliac artery length (Cook ZBIS), a narrow common iliac artery diameter (Gore IBE), and a >50° angulation between the external and internal iliac arteries (JOTEC E-Iliac). There was a significant difference between the feasibility of the three devices (P < .001). Cook ZBIS was the graft with the higher feasibility, with 3.3 and 4.4 higher odds when compared with Gore IBE and JOTEC E-Iliac devices, respectively. There was no significant difference between the Gore IBE and the JOTEC E-Iliac. By using liberal criteria, the overall feasibility increased to 95.8%. ConclusionsWe found that only 65.5% of patients were feasible with one of the available devices according to the manufacturer’s instructions for use. The Cook ZBIS was the device with the overall highest feasibility. Extending the use of these devices with adjunctive measures and a more liberal approach increased feasibility to 95.8%.

Application of a Novel Common-Iliac-Artery Skirt Technology (CST) in Treating Challenge Aorto-Iliac or Isolated Iliac Artery Aneurysms.

Purpose: To report a novel common-iliac-artery skirt technology (CST) in treating challenge iliac artery aneurysms.Methods: When required healthy landing zone of common iliac artery (CIA) is not available, CST is a strategy to exclude the internal iliac artery (IIA) and prevent IIA reflux without need of embolization. Patients who received endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) in our center from 2014 to 2020 were retrospectively screened, and patients treated with CST or with IIA embolization (IIAE) were enrolled.Results: After retrospective screen of 524 EVAR patients, 39 CST patients, 26 IIAE patients, and 7 CST + IIAE patients were enrolled in this study. CST group suggested to have more aged, hyperlipemia, and smoking patients than IIAE group. Two groups had comparable maximal diameter of abdominal aorta (AA), CIA, EIA, but larger diameter of IIA (CST 19.82 ± 2.281 vs. IIAE 27.82 ± 3.401, p = 0.048), and CIA bifurcation (CST 25.01 ± 1.316 vs. IIAE 29.76 ± 2.775, p = 0.087) was found in IIAE group. Anatomy of 79.5% of CST patients and 92.3% of IIAE patients (p = 0.293) was not suitable for potential use of iliac branch device. CST group had significant shorter surgery time (CST 97.42 ± 3.891 vs. IIAE 141.0 ± 8.010, p < 0.001), shorter hospital stay (CST 15.35 ± 0.873 vs. IIAE 19.32 ± 1.067, p = 0.009), lower in-hospital [CST 0% (0/39) vs. IIAE 11.5% (3/26), p = 0.059] and 1-year follow-up stent related MAEs [CST 6.7% (2/30) vs. IIAE 28.6% (6/21), p = 0.052], but comparable mortality and stent related MAEs for all-cohort follow-up analysis comparing to IIAE group. In our study, a lower in-hospital buttock claudication (BC) rate for CST (CST 20.5% vs. IIAE 46.2%, p = 0.053) and a comparable erectile dysfunction (ED) rate (CST 10.3% vs. IIAE 23.1%, p = 0.352) were found between CST and IIAE groups. After 1 year, both groups had about one third relief of BC symptoms [CST 33.3% (4/12) vs. IIAE 30.7% (4/13), p = 1.000]. Subgroup analysis of 14 patents concomitant with IIA aneurysm in CST group and the 7 CST + IIAE patients were carried out, and no difference was found in mortality, stent MAEs, sac dilation, or reintervention rate. Last, illustration of seven typical CST cases was presented.Conclusion: In selected cases, the CST is a safe, feasible-and-effective choose in treating challenge iliac artery aneurysms and preventing IIA endoleak.

Endovascular Iliac Artery Aneurysm Repair With Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis in Type III Loeys-Dietz Syndrome

Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS) type III is a rare connective tissue disorder caused by SMAD3 gene mutations that manifests with arterial tortuosity, systemic aneurysms, aortic root dilatation, and osteoarthritis. The endovascular treatment of iliac artery aneurysms with an iliac branch endoprosthesis (IBE) in LDS patients has not been described. We have presented the safety and technical feasibility of branched endovascular iliac artery aneurysm repair in a patient with a rare variant SMAD3 mutation resulting in LDS type III. A 52-year-old man with an ascending aortic root aneurysm, intercostal artery aneurysm, infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm, and bilateral common iliac artery (CIA) aneurysms underwent extended gene analysis. He was found to have a rare variant heterozygous autosomal dominant SMAD3 gene mutation (p.I396N) consistent with LDS type III. Because the patient was in extremis from infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture, he underwent open replacement with a bifurcated Dacron graft and ligation of the right hypogastric artery at an unaffiliated hospital. Computed tomography angiography revealed a residual 4.7-cm left CIA aneurysm and an anatomic constraint for the IBE (proximal CIA diameter, <17 mm; Fig 1). The previously described alternative endograft aortoiliac reconstruction technique facilitated IBE repair by creation of an adequate proximal CIA landing zone with an Ovation limb (Endologix, Irving, Calif). The contralateral gate was cannulated through a left axillary cutdown. Because of a tortuous hypogastric artery, Viabahn endoprostheses (W.L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, Ariz) were used for hypogastric extensions, with a bridging Gore VBX stent graft. No perioperative complications occurred. At the 5-month follow-up visit, he was alive without cardiovascular morbidity. Computed tomography angiography showed branch vessel patency and sac regression, with no evidence of an endoleak or stent graft migration (Fig 2). Although branched endovascular iliac artery aneurysm repair is not the historical treatment of choice for patients with LDS type III, IBE repair can be a safe and effective minimally invasive treatment option for anatomically suitable patients.Fig 2Postoperative three-dimensional computed tomography angiogram showing patent left common iliac, external iliac, and hypogastric arteries with no evidence of endoleak or stent graft migration.View Large Image Figure ViewerDownload Hi-res image Download (PPT)

One Year Outcomes of an International Multicentre Prospective Cohort Study on the Gore Excluder Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis for Aorto-Iliac Aneurysms

The Gore Excluder Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis (IBE) was developed to preserve perfusion in the hypogastric artery after endovascular repair of aorto-iliac aneurysms. This study reports the 12 month technical and clinical outcomes of treatment with this device. This study was a physician initiated international multicentre, prospective cohort study. The primary endpoint was primary patency of the hypogastric branch at 12 months. Secondary endpoints included technical and clinical outcomes. Patients with an indication for elective treatment with the Gore Excluder IBE were enrolled between March 2015 and August 2018. Baseline and procedural characteristics, imaging data, physical examinations and questionnaire data (Walking Impairment Questionnaire [WIQ], EuroQol-5-Dimensions [EQ5D], International Index of Erectile Function 5 [IIEF-5]) were collected through 12 month follow up. One hundred patients were enrolled of which 97% were male, with a median age of 70.0 years (interquartile range [IQR] 64.5 - 75.5 years). An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) above threshold for treatment was found in 42.7% and in the remaining patients the iliac artery diameter was the indication for treatment. The maximum common iliac artery (CIA) diameter on the Gore Excluder IBE treated side was 35.5 mm (IQR 30.8 - 42.0) mm. Twenty-two patients received a bilateral and seven patients had an isolated IBE. Median procedural time was 151 minutes (IQR 117 - 193 minutes) with a median hospital stay of four days (IQR 3 - 5 days). Primary patency of the IBE at 12 month follow up was 91.3%. Primary patency for patients treated inside and outside the instructions for use were 91.8% and 85.7%, respectively (p= .059). Freedom from secondary interventions was 98% and 97% at 30 days and 12 months, respectively. CIA and AAA diameters decreased significantly through 12 months. IIEF-5 and EQ5D scores remained stable through follow up. Patency of the contralateral internal iliac artery led to better IIEF-5 outcomes. WIQ scores decreased at 30 days and returned to baseline values through 12 months. Use of the Gore Excluder IBE for the treatment of aorto-iliac aneurysms shows a satisfactory primary patency through 12 months, with significant decrease of diameters, a low re-intervention rate, and favourable clinical outcomes.

Risk Factors for Early and Late Type Ib Endoleak Following Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

A type Ib endoleak (T1bEL) is a postoperative complication that usually requires additional interventions following endovascular aortic aneurysm repair. Previous studies have focused on iliac artery tortuosity or common iliac artery (CIA) diameter. However, we investigated the various risk factors for early and late T1bELs more comprehensively. This retrospective case-control study of a prospectively maintained database compared anatomical, demographic and technical factors between patients with early or late T1bELs and a control group. Early T1bEL was defined as a T1bEL occurring within 6months of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), while late T1bEL was defined as a T1bEL, initially identified more than 6months after EVAR. Anatomical values including neck diameter, length, and angle; maximum sac diameter and length; CIA length, diameter, and tortuosity; and distal sealing length were measured and included in the analysis. We performed uni- and multivariable analyses using logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard models. This study included 635 iliac limbs of 383 patients. Overall, T1bELs occurred in 22 iliac limbs during the follow-up period (22/635, 3.5%). Among them, the early and late T1bEL groups each included 11 limbs. The median follow-up duration of the 383 patients was 23 (8-58) months, and in the early T1bEL and early control groups, the durations were 15 (9-35) and 29 (15-60) months, respectively (P=0.01). The median overall follow-up durations in the late T1bEL and late control groups were 87 (76-102) and 62 (48-80) months, respectively (P=0.01). The median follow-up duration until the occurrence of late T1bEL was 44 (32-82) months, which was shorter than that of the late control group (P=0.03). No significant differences in sex, age, or brand of stent-graft were observed between the T1bEL and control groups. In the multivariable analysis, patients in the early T1bEL group had significantly more tortuous and short CIAs, and short distal sealing lengths (P=0.02, P=0.04, P=0.03, respectively), and the late T1bEL group had significantly larger maximum aortic aneurysm sac diameters, short CIAs and short distal sealing lengths (P<0.001, P=0.02, P=0.002, respectively). The suspected mechanisms of the T1bELs were CIA dilatation with or without sac expansion and aggravation of sac angulation. Except for one patient with aortic dissection, T1bELs were treated with iliac limb extensions. The various mechanisms of T1bELs differed depending on the time of onset from the procedure. An extensive sealing length may be protective against T1bEL, especially when the size of the aortic aneurysm sac is large or when the CIA has risky features, including large diameter or short length. Careful preoperative consideration of aortic aneurysm size and CIA length and tortuosity is essential, and patients with risky features should undergo strict postoperative surveillance.

Incidence, Prognosis and Predictors of Major Vascular Complications and Percutaneous Closure Device Failure Following Contemporary Percutaneous Transfemoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

ObjectivesTo determine the incidence, prognosis, and predictors of major Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC-2) vascular complications (VCs) and percutaneous vascular closure device failure (PCDF) following contemporary percutaneous transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TF-TAVR). BackgroundLimited data exists on the incidence and predictors of VCs and PCDFs following percutaneous TF-TAVR using contemporary 14–16 French (F) sheaths. MethodsWe recorded clinical and procedural characteristics, computer tomography (CT) angiographic data, 30-day VCs, mortality, and length of stay (LOS) in all consecutive percutaneous TF-TAVRs at a single center from June 2016 to October 2018. CT measures included common femoral artery (CFA) and external iliac artery (EIA) diameters, sheath to CFA and EIA ratios (SFAR and SEIAR), depth of CFA, extent and location of CFA calcification and pelvic vessel tortuosity (2 bends ≥90°). Multivariable regression was used to predict major VCs and percutaneous closure device failure (PCDF), respectively. ResultsThe final sample consisted of 303 percutaneous TF-TAVRs. Median age was 80 years, 51% were male, 86% Caucasian, 33% had diabetes mellitus (DM) and mean STS score was 5.8 ± 3.8%. Baseline characteristics were similar in patients with vs. without VCs, other than coronary artery disease (CAD) (69% vs. 54%, respectively; p = 0.029) and DM (21% vs. 36%, respectively; p = 0.02). There were 65 (21%) vascular complications: 19 major VCs [6.3%], 29 minor [VCs 9.6%] and 17 PCDFs [5.6%]. Overall, 30-day mortality was low (2.6%). Major VCs were associated with higher mortality (42% vs. 0%, p < 0.0001) while minor VCs (3% vs. 0%, mortality p = 0.99) and PCDFs (3% vs. 0% mortality, p = 0.99) were not. PCDFs were associated with a longer median LOS (4 vs. 3 days, p = 0.02). The independent predictors of major VCs were pelvic vessel tortuosity (OR 3.1; 95% CI 1.1–9.2) and presence of CAD (OR 8.2; 95% CI 1.8–37). Female gender showed a strong trend toward increased risk (OR 3.4; CI 0.84–14; p = 0.086). There were no independent predictors of PCDF. ConclusionContemporary percutaneous TF-TAVR is associated with a low risk of mortality, major VCs and PCDFs. Major VCs confer increased mortality and PCDFs prolong LOS. Pelvic vessel tortuosity and a history of CAD predict major VCs; there were no predictors of PCDFs. These results provide a contemporary update on the incidence and implications of these important vascular complications in the current era of percutaneous TF-TAVR using 14-16F vascular sheaths.

Natural History of Common Iliac Artery Aneurysm in Men with Screening Detected Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Introduction - A nationwide screening program for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) targeting 65-year old men was introduced in 2006 and was fully implemented in 2015. The aim of the present study was to analyse the natural history of common iliac artery aneurysm (CIAA) in 65-year old men with a screening detected AAA or a subaneurysmal aorta (SAA). Methods - All 65-year old men were offered an abdominal aortic ultrasound examination in our county 2006-2014. An AAA was defined as an aortic diameter ≥30mm and a SAA as 25-29 mm. All subjects with an AAA or SAA had a simultaneous ultrasound examination of their common iliac arteries (CIA). A CIAA was defined as a CIA diameter ≥18 mm, according to the ISCVS/SVS Ad Hoc Committee. Results - Of 17774 men invited 15142 (85.2%) attended. A total of 197 (1.3%, 95% CI 1.1-1.5%) AAA and 228 (1.5%, 95% CI 1.3-1.7%) SAA were identified, of whom 415 (98%) had a reliable CIA ultrasound examination. The mean maximum CIA-diameter was 15 mm (range 8-60 mm). A total of 88 patients (35 SAA and 53 AAA) had a concomitant CIAA (21%; 95% CI 17-25%), 31% of which bilateral. Aortoiliac surgery was performed on 28 patients (32%), of which 19 (68%) on AAA indication, 5 (18%) on CIAA indication and 4 (14%) on combined AAA and CIAA indication. All five patients that underwent surgery based solely on CIAA size, were detected at initial AAA screening. No CIAA rupture was observed. In total 115 CIAAs were identified. These CIAAs together with 50 patients from an opportunistic screening cohort were used for growth rate estimation. CIAAs with one measurement (74), <6 months follow up (5) and measurement errors(18) were excluded. In total 68 CIAAs were analysed. Each patient had a range of 2 up to 11 measurements over time, with a mean number of observations of 5.2 (95% CI 4.6–5.8). The mean follow up time was 4.0 years (95% CI 3.5–4.6) and the mean growth rate was 0.6mm/year (95% CI 0.3 – 0.9). Data on co-morbidity, heredity and medication were collected, but no significant growth predictors could be identified. Conclusion - CIAA is relatively common in 65-year old men with a screening detected AAA or SAA. All CIAAs requiring surgery were detected upon initial AAA screening with ultrasound, marking the need of iliac assessment at the first examination. Most concomitant CIAAs in our material however, presented a slow growth rate, questioning the need of iliac examination at AAA follow up.