Previous Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair Research Articles

Post-dissection Thoraco-abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Managed with Fenestrated or Branched Endovascular Aortic Repair

Fenestrated or branched endovascular repairs (f/bEVAR) are valuable treatments in patients with chronic post-dissection thoraco-abdominal aneurysms (PD-TAAA). This study aimed to analyse early and follow up outcomes of f/bEVAR. Thirty day and follow up outcomes of consecutive patients with PD-TAAA treated with f/bEVAR in a tertiary centre over 8 years were retrospectively analysed. All patients presenting with PD-TAAA and managed with f/bEVAR, were eligible. Modified Crawford's classification system was used. Thirty day mortality and major adverse events (MAE) were analysed. Time to event data were estimated with Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Fifty five patients (80% men, mean age 63.7 ± 7.7 years) were included: 12 (22%) were managed urgently; 25 (46%) for chronic type B aortic dissection; and the remainder for residual type A aortic dissection. Of these patients, 88% had undergone previous thoracic endovascular aortic repair. Prophylactic cerebrospinal fluid drainage (CSFD) was used in 91%. Fifteen (27%) patients were treated with fEVAR, nine (16%) with fenestrations and branches, and 31 (56%) with bEVAR. False lumen adjunctive procedures were used in 56%. Technical success was achieved in 96% of patients. Thirty day mortality was 7% and MAE rate was 20%. Spinal cord injury (SCI) grades 1 - 3 and grade 3 rates were 13% and 2%, respectively. Mean follow up was 33.0 ± 18.4 months. Survival and freedom from unscheduled re-intervention were 86% (SE 5%) and 55% (SE 8%) at 24 months, respectively. Freedom from target vessel stenosis and occlusion was higher in fEVAR at the 12 month follow up (p = .006) compared with bEVAR. Fenestrated or branched endovascular repairs in patients with PD-TAAA showed high technical success, with acceptable early mortality and MAE rates. The SCI rate was > 10%, despite CSFD use and staged procedures. Almost one-half of patients needed an unscheduled re-intervention within 24 months after f/bEVAR.

In Situ Fenestrated Thoracic Endovascular Repair Using the Upstream Peripheral Go BackTM Re-Entry Catheter.

The aim is to present a case of in situ fenestrated thoracic endovascular repair, using a re-entry peripheral catheter, needing urgent repair due to recurrent episodes of hemoptysis because of an aorto-bronchial fistula after previous thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). A 74-year-old male with a previous TEVAR presented with hemoptysis, fever, and cachexia. An aorto-bronchial fistula and type Ia endoleak were depicted on computed tomography angiography (CTA). Due to the patient's frail general condition, a proximal TEVAR extension was planned, prior to thoracotomy for debridement, and long-term antibiotics. An in situ fenestrated TEVAR was performed to provide proximal sealing and revascularize the left common carotid and subclavian arteries. For fenestration creation, an Upstream Peripheral Go Back catheter (Bentley, Hechingen, Germany) was used. The Go Back catheter has been approved as a re-entry tool for complex peripheral arterial revascularization. In this case, both fenestrations were successfully created. Proximal seal and target vessel patency were confirmed on CTA. Thoracotomy confirmed aortic exclusion. A wedge lobectomy was performed in combination with pediculated omentectomy to exclude the exposed endograft. In urgent cases, where custom-made thoracic devices are unavailable, in situ fenestrations with the Go Back catheter are an alternative to laser fenestrations. Fenestrations are often required in acute TEVAR to achieve a proximal seal in the arch. In situ fenestrations with the Go Back catheter are an alternative to laser fenestrations and PMEGs in this setting.

Outcomes of Zone 1 Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair With Fenestrated Surgeon-Modified Stent-Graft for Aortic Arch Pathologies

Objectives: This study evaluated the feasibility and safety of zone 1 thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) with fenestrated surgeon-modified stent-graft (SMSG) for aortic arch pathologies. Methods: Between March 2016 and November 2020, 34 consecutive patients underwent zone 1 TEVAR with fenestrated SMSG for aortic arch pathologies. Outcomes included technical success, perioperative, and follow-up morbidity and mortality. Results: During the study period, 34 patients were treated with zone 1 TEVAR with fenestrated SMSG. Twenty-four (70.6%) patients presented with type B aortic dissections, 9 (26.5%) patients presented with aneurysms (7 located on the lesser curvature side of aortic arch), 1 (2.9%) patient presented with type Ia endoleak after previous TEVAR owing to traumatic aortic dissection. The proximal landing zone for all patients were in zone 1, and all supra-aortic trunks were reconstructed, except for one left subclavian artery. Technical success was achieved in all cases. The 30-day estimated survival (±SE) was 90.9% ± 5.0% [95% confidence interval (CI): 77.0%–97.0%]. The 30-day estimated freedom from reintervention (±SE) was 87.9% ± 5.7% (95% CI: 73.4%–95.3%). At a median follow-up of 48 months (range, 12–68 months), 2 patients died, including 1 aortic-related death and 1 non-aortic-related death. One patient had reintervention 13 months after the operation owing to type Ia endoleak. All supra-aortic trunks were patent. The estimated survival (±SE) during follow-up was 85.1% ± 6.2% (95% CI: 69.9%–93.6%). One (2.7%) patient had stroke. The estimated freedom from reintervention (±SE) during follow-up was 84.2% ± 6.5% (95% CI: 69.9%–93.5%). Conclusions: Zone 1 TEVAR with fenestrated SMSG is an alternate option for treatment of aortic arch pathologies in experienced centers.

Bifurcated Arterial Circulation for Hybrid Aortic Reconstruction: A Novel Technique.

Hybrid aortic procedures present many new challenges to the management of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Reoperation or previous thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) can further complicate these procedures, increasing the need for flexibility within the CPB system to execute multiple perfusion strategies as cases dictate. This technique describes the use of a bifurcated arterial circulation to provide both cerebral and lower body perfusion during a redo hybrid aortic arch reconstruction. The arterial line was divided into upper and lower body limbs, and connected to an 8-mm Dacron graft to the axillary artery, as well as a percutaneous 16-Fr. OptiSite femoral arterial cannula respectively. A 25-Fr. multi-stage femoral venous cannula was placed percutaneously as well. CPB was initiated utilizing both arterial cannulas with near-infrared spectroscopy and electroencephalogram to monitor the adequacy of cerebral perfusion. Moderate hypothermia of 26°C was induced and a CODA balloon (Cook Medical, Bloomington, IN) was deployed to occlude the proximal limb of a thoracic endovascular repair (TEVAR) graft; the common trunk of the debranched arch vessels was clamped proximally, allowing for simultaneous upper and lower body perfusion. Upon completion of the distal arch, the CODA balloon was removed and total body perfusion was reinitiated via central cannulation utilizing a sidearm on the arch graft.

Outcomes of Total Endovascular Aortic Arch Repair with Surgeon-Modified Fenestrated Stent-Grafts on Zone 0 Landing for Aortic Arch Pathologies

Objectives This study evaluated the feasibility and safety of total endovascular aortic arch repair with surgeon-modified fenestrated stent-graft on zone 0 landing for aortic arch pathologies. Methods Between June 2016 and October 2019, 37 consecutive patients underwent total endovascular arch repair with surgeon-modified fenestrated stent-grafts on zone 0 landing. Outcomes included technical success, perioperative and follow-up morbidity and mortality, and branch artery patency. Results During the study period, 37 patients were treated with total endovascular aortic arch repair with surgeon-modified fenestrated stent-graft. Twenty-one (56.8%) patients were diagnosed with aortic dissections, 15 (40.5%) patients with aneurysms, and 1 (2.7%) patient required reintervention due to endoleak and sac expansion from previous thoracic endovascular aortic repair for thoracoabdominal aneurysm. The proximal landing zone for all patients were in zone 0, and all branch arteries of aortic arch were reconstructed. Technical success was achieved in 34 cases (91.9%). Three (8.1%) patients had fenestrations misaligned with target arteries, and the chimney technique was applied as a complementary measure. Thirty-day mortality rate was 5.4% (n=2). Thirty-day stroke rate was 5.4% (n=2). Thirty-day reintervention rate was 2.7% (n=1). At a median follow-up of 20 months (range, 3–49 months), 5 (13.5%) patients died, including 2 aortic-related deaths, 1 nonaortic-related death, and 2 deaths of unknown reason. One (2.7%) patient had stroke. Four patients (10.8%) had reintervention during the follow-up, including 2 cases of left subclavian artery occlusion and 2 cases of type II endoleak. The estimated survival (±SE) at 2 years was 72.4%±9.7% (95% CI 53.4%–91.4%). The estimated freedom from reintervention (±SE) at 2 years was 87.4%±5.9% (95% CI 75.84%–98.96%). Conclusions Total endovascular aortic arch repair with surgeon-modified fenestrated stent-grafts on zone 0 landing is an alternate option for the treatment of aortic arch pathologies in experienced centers.

Low-density vulnerable thrombus/plaque volume on preoperative computed tomography predicts for spinal cord ischemia after endovascular repair for thoracic aortic aneurysm

BackgroundSimilar to open surgical repair, thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) carries a risk of spinal cord ischemia (SCI). However, the generally lower incidence of SCI after TEVAR compared with that after open surgical repair, despite the inability to preserve the intercostal arteries, indicates different pathophysiologic mechanisms with the two procedures. We hypothesized that a microembolism from an aortic mural thrombus is the main cause of SCI. Thus, we evaluated the association between the density of a mural thrombus in the descending thoracic aorta and the development of SCI. MethodsA retrospective review of a prospectively assembled database was performed for all patients who had undergone surgery at a single institution from October 2008 to December 2018. Patient demographics and procedure-related variables were collected. The volume and Hounsfield unit (HU) value of mural thrombi in the whole descending thoracic aorta were estimated on preoperative computed tomography using a three-dimensional workstation. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors for SCI development. ResultsOf the 367 patients who had undergone TEVAR during the study period, 155 were excluded because of previous arch surgery (n = 59), previous descending thoracic aortic surgery (n = 6), previous TEVAR (n = 6), unavailability of optimal preoperative computed tomography data (n = 17), double-barreled dissection (n = 40), and other reasons. The mean ± standard deviation age of the remaining 212 patients was 75.8 ± 6.4 years, and 42 (19.8%) were women. Of the 212 patients, 14 (6.6%) developed SCI after TEVAR. The low mean density of the mural thrombus, total thrombus volume, low-density (≥−100 HU but <30 HU) thrombus volume, intermediate-density (≥30 HU but <150 HU) thrombus volume, treatment length, urgent surgery, and baseline dialysis differed significantly between patients with and without SCI. Although subsequent multivariate analysis could not be performed owing to the small number of SCI events, vulnerable low-density thrombus/plaque was a stronger predictor among the aneurysm-related factors of SCI after TEVAR on univariate analysis. Well-known risk factors, such as distal coverage between T8 and L1, left subclavian artery coverage, previous abdominal aortic surgery, and prophylactic spinal drainage, did not show significant differences. ConclusionsThe results from the present study have demonstrated that among aneurysm-related factors, a lower density mural thrombus/plaque in the descending thoracic aorta is a predictor of SCI development after TEVAR. These results suggest that microembolism is one of the important mechanisms of SCI after TEVAR, which might change the prophylactic strategy.

Impact of Endovascular False Lumen Embolization on Thoracic Aortic Remodeling in Chronic Dissection

Retrograde false lumen (FL) perfusion after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for chronic dissection is a mode of treatment failure. Thrombosis of the FL is associated with favorable reverse remodeling. Objectives are to describe FL embolization (FLE) strategy and assess aortic remodeling and survival. From January 2009 to December 2017, 51 patients with chronic dissection underwent FLE, most after previous TEVAR. Devices included a combination of iliac plug (29 patients), coils (19 patients), or nitinol plug (3 patients). Computed tomography was performed before discharge, at 3 months, and annually (median follow-up 2 years [range, 1 month to 7 years]). After FLE, mean maximum aortic diameter decreased (64.2 ± 12 mm to 61.0 ± 13 mm; P= .03), true lumen diameter increased (24.7 ± 10 mm to 33.7 ± 8 mm; P < .001), and FL diameter decreased (36.7 ± 12 mm to 25.6 ± 15 mm, P < .001). For reverse remodeling, FL thrombosis with ≥10% decrease in diameter and ≥10% increase in true lumen diameter was achieved in 20 (39.2%; 16 primarily, 4 secondarily). Nine patients progressed after the first FLE: persistent FL flow with increase in aortic diameter and underwent repeat FLE with complete thrombosis (n= 4) or open thoracoabdominal completion (n= 5). A total of 26 patients had indeterminate response (FL thrombosis without change in maximum diameter), and none have required reoperation. Six patients had complete obliteration of the entire FL. At last follow-up, 42 (82%) patients were alive. Three deaths were related to aortic pathology. FLE is an important endovascular adjunct to TEVAR promoting reverse aortic remodeling in select patients with chronic aortic dissection and persistent retrograde FL perfusion.

Five-year outcomes of endovascular repair of complicated acute type B aortic dissections

ObjectiveThoracic endovascular aortic repair is the standard of care for acute complicated type B aortic dissections, but long-term single-device outcomes are limited. MethodsFifty patients were treated with the Valiant Captivia thoracic stent graft (Medtronic Inc, Santa Rosa, Calif) for acute complicated type B aortic dissections in this prospective, nonrandomized Dissection Trial. All-cause mortality, secondary procedures, and serious adverse events were assessed, and a core lab evaluated images for aortic remodeling. ResultsCompliance for both clinical and imaging follow-up was 78% (18 out of 23) for the available patients at 5 years. Notable baseline characteristics were 86% of patients (43 out of 50) had malperfusion, 20% (10 out of 50) had ruptures, and 94% (46 out of 49) had DeBakey class IIIB dissections. The 5-year freedom from dissection-related mortality, secondary procedures related to the dissection, and endoleaks was 83%, 86%, and 85%, respectively. After 5 years, 89% of patients (16 out of 18) had a completely thrombosed false lumen in the stented segment of the aorta and the true lumen diameter over the length of stent graft was stable or increased for 94% of patients (16 out of 17) while the false lumen diameter was stable or decreased in 77% (13 out of 17) after 5 years. ConclusionsIn the Dissection Trial, patients experienced positive and sustained measures of aortic remodeling. Survival outcomes, need for secondary procedures, and adverse event rates were consistent with previous thoracic endovascular aortic repair studies. Although limitations exist with the follow-up compliance, the Valiant Captivia thoracic stent graft system was effective in the long-term management of acute complicated type B aortic dissections in this patient population with a challenging condition.

Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair Using Combined the Najuta Fenestrated Stent Graft Plus the Distal Ctag Stent Graft for Aortic Arch Aneurysm

Introduction - The Najuta fenestrated stent graft extend the proximal sealing zone during thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). On the other hand, the CTAG stent graft has good conformability in the inner curvature of the aortic arch and has a less spring-back force of the stent graft. Based on these strength, we used the Najuta fenestrated graft for proximal fixation while the CTAG was used for distal landing for TEVAR of aortic arch in high-risk patients. We report the early results of this combined strategy. Methods - From January 2015 to March 2018, 117 TEVARs were performed in our facility. 16 patients (94% male; mean age 75 years) treated with combined the Najuta plus the CTAG stent graft. Results -TAA were fusiform in 7 cases, saccular in 4, dissecting in 4, and 1 patient was treated for proximal type 1 endoleak after previous TEVAR. The stent graft was landed in zone 0 in 13 cases, in zone 1 in 3 cases. The Najuta custom made fenestration was designed to preserve flow in the left common carotid artery in 11 patients, in the left subclavian artery in 2. There were 10 cases (63%) in which we could avoid the debranching bypass. No proximal type 1 endoleak occurred and proximal sealing was achieved in all cases. Technical success was 100% with no 30-day mortality. Mean operative time was 185 minutes. All targeted vessels were patent. One stroke occurred with TEVAR landing in zone 0 with an overall stroke rate of 6%. No paraplegia and retrograde dissection were encountered. During a mean follow up of 12 months, no conversion to open surgical repair and no aortic rupture occurred. Conclusion - Combined proximal Najuta and distal CTAG stent grafting appears to be a safe and effective treatment. This strategy also decreases the need for debranching bypass procedures.

Handmade stent graft fenestration to preserve left subclavian artery in thoracic endovascular aortic repair†.

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a handmade fenestrated stent graft over an aortic stent graft for preserving the left subclavian artery (LSA) in thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). From July 2015 to October 2018, a total of 32 consecutive patients with various thoracic aortic pathologies who underwent TEVAR in which handmade fenestration over a thoracic aortic stent graft was used for LSA were included. Outcomes including technical success, procedure-related complications, perioperative mortality and morbidity and graft patency were analysed. Twenty-four patients (75.00%) presented with aortic dissection, 5 patients (15.63%) with thoracic aortic aneurysm and 2 patients (6.25%) with penetrating aortic ulcer; 1 patient (3.13%) required re-TEVAR due to endoleak and sac expansion from previous TEVAR for thoraco-abdominal aneurysm. TEVAR was performed in a zone 2 landing with single fenestration for LSA (26 patients, 81.25%), zone 1 landing with double fenestration for both LSA and left common carotid artery (5 patients, 15.63%) or zone 1 landing with single fenestration for LSA and a chimney graft for left common carotid artery (1 patient, 3.13%). The technical success rate, defined as the successful alignment of fenestration to LSA, was 93.75%. At a mean follow-up of 17.3 months, 4 cases of endoleak and 2 cases of stent graft-induced new entry were noted, 3 of which were treated endovascularly. Our preliminary results demonstrate the viability of preserving LSA blood flow in TEVAR using a handmade stent graft fenestration to treat various aortic pathologies in various clinical situations and the technical feasibility and short-term results that may justify the use of this method in emergency cases.

Coil Embolization for Persistent Thoracic False Lumen of Type B Aortic Dissection after Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair

The natural history of the thoracic false lumen after coil embolization for type B aortic dissection (TBAD) treated by previous thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) remains a matter of debate. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of coil embolization in promoting thoracic aortic remodeling of TBAD with persistent thoracic false lumen after TEVAR. Between January 2015 and December 2016, 7 consecutive TBAD patients with persistent thoracic false lumen post-TEVAR underwent coil embolization, either isolated (3 with maximum thoracic aortic diameter <55mm) or combined with adjunctive procedure(s) specifically for distal re-entry tears (4 with thoracic aneurysmal aortic dissection ≥55mm in diameter). Pre- and postcoiling computer tomography angiography (CTA) images were used to evaluate aortic remodeling via false lumen thrombosis status and maximum thoracic aorta diameter. Procedures were performed successfully in all patients, without intraoperative complications or 30-day mortality. Two dissection-related deaths occurred after hospital discharge, yielding a 6-month mortality of 28.6%. Six patients had surveillance CTA images available for analyses at median 11.2months (range 5.6-23.5) of follow-up. Thoracic aortic shrinkage and completely thrombosed thoracic false lumen were seen in 1 patient (16.7%); thoracic aortic stabilization albeit with persistent blood flow along the false lumen below or even more proximal to the embolization in 4 patients (66.7%); and continued thoracic aortic growth and aortoesophageal fistula proximal to the embolized false lumen in 1 patient. In this retrospective single center experience, the efficacy of coil embolization in promoting thoracic aortic remodeling of TBAD with persistent thoracic false lumen post-TEVAR appears to be limited, especially in patients with thoracic aneurysmal aortic dissection. Further studies are warranted to inform the optimal treatment strategy.

PS01.085: TREATMENT STRATEGY FOR AORTO-ESOPHAGEAL FISTULA

Abstract Background Aorto-esophageal fistula (AEF) is relatively rare, but life-threatening condition. AEF is usually caused in the patients with thoracic aortic diseases, such as aneurysms, or after thoracic aortic surgery. We present our surgical strategy for AEF. Methods From May 2004 to November 2017, 12 patients with AEF were treated at our hospital. The age ranges from 44 to 83 years, and the number of male/female was 9/3. Five patients had previous thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVER) in the descending aorta, four patients had descending or total arch replacement. Two patients caused by rupture of thoracic aortic aneurysm, and one patient had penetration of esophagus caused by aspiration of Press Through Package. As the first procedures for surgical treatment, we perform TEVAR in order to prevent the fatal hemorrhage from aortic pseudoaneurysm. At the same day, removal of esophagus with debridement of adjacent infected tissues is performed by open thoracic procedure. After a few days, excision of the infected graft or the aorta followed by new graft replacement with omental flap installation is performed. Four patients used homograft and four patients used rifampicin-soaked graft. After the patient's general condition improve, we plan to perform open surgery for reconstruction of esophagus. Results A 3-year survival rate was 50%, and perioperative mortality was 25%. Hospital mortality was noted in 3 patients due to sepsis, brainstem infarction and pulmonary hemorrhage (6–117 days after the first surgery). Late death occurred in 4 patients (n = 2: ileus, n = 1: carcinoma, n = 1: pneumonia). Eight patients could undergo esophagus reconstruction, by colon graft in 4 patients, a pedicled jejunum and a gastric tube in 2 patients, respectively. The duration from esophageal resection to reconstruction was 1–11 months. Conclusion Because AEF usually accompanied with hemodynamic instability, immediate surgical intervention is regarded as the only effective treatment. Corporation between gastrointestinal surgeons and cardiovascular surgeons is necessary to achieve this treatment. We share our experiences of AEF treatment and discuss surgical strategy. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.

False lumen intervention to promote remodelling and thrombosis-The FLIRT concept in aortic dissection.

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has changed the management of aortic dissection by induced remodelling. Beyond reconstructing the true lumen, we describe the concept of False Lumen Intervention to promote Remodelling and Thrombosis (FLIRT) in both type A and B aortic dissection. Between 2011 and 2017, 10 patients with aortic dissection (5 type A; 5 type B) underwent FLIRT using a combination of patent foramen ovale (PFO) or atrial septal defect (ASD) occluders, coils and glue. Patients were followed by computed tomography (CT) angiogram prior to, and 6 months following, discharge to evaluate false lumen (FL) thrombosis and aortic remodelling. Outcomes analyzed comprised successful device delivery, completeness of FL thrombosis and aortic remodelling, procedure related complications and mortality. FLIRT induced aortic remodelling in all cases of proximal dissection, with aortic shrinkage from 63.8 ± 7.5 pre-FLIRT, to 50.2 ± 6.6 mm (P = 0.057) and an increase in true lumen area from 5.8 ± 3.6 to 11.4 ± 2.5 cm2 (P = 0.006). In distal dissection (after previous TEVAR with residual FL flow), FLIRT successfully induced FL thrombosis in 4 of 5 cases at first attempt (1 case required additional coiling of the gutter between left subclavian artery and stent-graft for complete thrombosis). While maximal aortic diameter remained unchanged (55.6 ± 9.1 pre-FLIRT and 54.4 ± 13.7 mm at follow-up), true lumen area increased from 7.8 ± 2.3 pre-procedure, to 10.6 ± 1.5 cm2 at follow-up (P = 0.016), consistent with remodelling. Interventional FL management, using the FLIRT concept, is feasible in selected cases of aortic dissection, promotes FL thrombosis and induces successful remodelling.

Aortic Replacement After TEVAR-Diameter Correction With Modified Use of the Siena Prosthesis

To report a new technique for diameter correction in patients after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) with large stent-grafts using the Vascutek Siena 4-branch collared prosthesis (Vascutek Terumo, Inchinnan, Scotland, UK) in patients undergoing thoracoabdominal (TA) aortic replacement. Within a 24-month period, 39 patients underwent TA replacement at our center. Of these, 6 patients had undergone previous TEVAR with large stent-grafts (42 to 48 mm diameter). Indications for TEVAR were aneurysm formation in 3 patients and residual type B aortic dissection (status post repair of type A dissection) in 3 patients. In these patients, the Vascutek Siena 4-branch prosthesis was used in a reversed fashion, removing the elephant trunk portion and using the sewing collar for diameter correction at the anastomotic site. No 30-day mortality and no stroke or symptomatic spinal cord ischemia was observed. Median diameter of the TEVAR graft at the anastomotic site was 44 mm. Median size of the Siena graft used was 26 mm. Diameter correction was successfully achieved in all patients by tailoring the sewing collar of the Siena 4-branch prosthesis to the individual need according to the diameter of the distal end of the stent-graft. Using the sewing collar of the Vascutek Siena 4-branch prosthesis for diameter correction in patients undergoing TA replacement after previous TEVAR with large stent-grafts adds a useful adjunct to the armamentarium of options in a growing patient population.

Surgical strategy for the treatment of aortoesophageal fistula

ObjectiveTo present a surgical strategy for aortoesophageal fistula (AEF). MethodsFrom October 1999 to May 2017, 27 patients with AEF were treated at Kobe University Hospital. After 9 patients with malignancies or fish bone penetration were excluded, 18 patients who had AEF secondary to aortic lesions were investigated. The mean age was 67.2 ± 10.4 years, and the male/female ratio was 16:2. Twelve patients had a nondissection thoracic aneurysm, and 6 patients had a chronic aortic dissection. Six patients were in shock. Seven patients had a previous thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in the descending aorta, 2 patients had descending aorta replacement, 1 had hemiarch replacement, and 2 had total arch replacement. As the first treatment for AEF, 3 patients underwent TEVAR as destination therapy, 3 patients had a bridge TEVAR to open surgery, 1 patient had an extra-anatomical bypass from the ascending aorta to the abdominal aorta, and 11 patients had an in situ reconstruction of the descending aorta. The esophagus was resected in 16 patients, and an omental flap was installed in 16 patients. Additional procedures were extra-anatomical bypass in 2 patients and in situ reconstruction of the aorta in 3 patients. ResultsHospital mortality was noted in 4 patients (22.2% persistent sepsis, n = 3: pneumonia, n = 1). However, since 2007, only 1 of 13 patients has died (pneumonia). Late death occurred in 5 patients, due to pneumonia, cerebral bleeding, diarrhea, sudden death, and persistent infection. Actuarial survival was 42.4 ± 12.8% at 5 years and freedom from aorta-related death was 59.4 ± 13.5% at 5 years. Nine patients achieved completed reconstruction of the esophagus 172 ± 57 days after initial surgery. ConclusionsAlthough a comparative study was not performed, 1-stage surgery consisting of resection of an aneurysm and esophagus, in situ reconstruction of the descending aorta, and omental flap installation provided a better outcome in the treatment for AEF. Bridging TEVAR to the open surgery is a useful adjunct in patients with AEF with hemorrhagic shock. Later reconstruction of the esophagus can be performed in the survivors.

Retrograde Type A Dissection after Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair: Surgical Strategy and Literature Review

In this study, we investigated the surgical strategy for managing retrograde type A dissection (RTAD) after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) by reporting our experience and literature review. From June 2011 to January 2014, nine patients with RTAD received surgical repair in our institution. The mean age of these patients was 49.3±10.7 years. Data on these RTAD patients was retrospectively collected for further analysis. Literature related to RTAD after TEVAR from 2006 to 2014 was reviewed using the following terms: thoracic endovascular aortic repair, retrograde type A dissection, stent induced new entry, and surgical repair. We adopted a total arch replacement combined with a stented elephant trunk implantation and partly preserved the previous TEVAR stent during operation. In-hospital death rate was 11.1% (one of nine). One patient (11.1%) developed paraparesis after operation. No late deaths or complications occurred during follow-up. Literature review identified four articles on the surgical management of RTAD after TEVAR. Our literature review also showed total arch replacement with the stented elephant trunk implantation might be associated with a better prognosis. Retrograde type A dissection is a serious complication after TEVAR. The induced factors of RTAD were various and complicated. Our experience and literature review indicates a combination of total arch replacement, stented elephant trunk implantation and partly preserving the previous TEVAR stent is feasible for the surgical repair of RTAD after TEVAR.

European Multicenter Registry for the Performance of the Chimney/Snorkel Technique in the Treatment of Aortic Arch Pathologic Conditions

To study the performance of the chimney technique in the treatment of aortic arch pathologic conditions. We retrospectively evaluated the clinical and procedural outcome data of patients undergoing endovascular treatment in the aortic arch by use of the chimney technique at four European centers between June 2002 and December 2014. The primary endpoint was technical success. The secondary endpoints were type I endoleak, 30-day mortality, stroke, primary patency of the chimney graft, and freedom from reintervention. Ninety-five patients were included in the study. The underlying pathologic conditions were degenerative aneurysm (n= 45, 47.4%), type B aortic dissection (n= 30, 31.6%), dissecting aneurysm (n= 6, 6.5%), penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer (n= 5, 5.3%), type I endoleak after previous thoracic endovascular aortic repair (n= 6, 6.3%), and aortic embolic disease (n= 3, 3.2%). Twenty-one patients (22%) underwent arch-branch debranching before chimney graft implantation. The majority of patients were treated electively (n= 49, 51.6%). Forty-six patients (48.4%) underwent urgent placement of chimney grafts because of their symptoms (n= 25) or rupture (n= 21). Technical success was 89.5%. The 30-day mortality was 9.5% (9 patients). No aorta-related death was observed. A type Iaendoleak occurred in 10 patients (10.5%) intraoperatively, resolving spontaneously within the first 30days in 50% of these cases. Major stroke was diagnosed in 2 patients (2%). Primary patency of the chimney grafts was 98%, and 5patients (5.2%) required a reintervention. The chimney technique in the aortic arch proved highly and predictably successful, with a low rate of reinterventions.

Proximal Scallop in Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair to Overcome Neck Issues in the Arch

To evaluate initial experience with a custom made proximal scalloped stent graft for thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) of aortic aneurysms involving the arch. Between September 2012 and November 2014, patients presenting with a thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) with short or angulated neck were selected for treatment by custom made proximal scalloped Relay Plus stent grafts (ABS Bolton Medical, Barcelona, Spain). Prospectively acquired data relating to patient demographics, procedure details, clinical outcomes, and complications were analyzed retrospectively. Ten selected patients (50% male, mean age 77 ± 8 years) were treated using a thoracic custom made Relay Plus stent graft, three of whom underwent additional cervical supra-aortic trunk revascularizations. TAA were fusiform in four cases, saccular in three, and three patients were treated for proximal type I endoleaks after previous standard TEVAR. The graft was landed in zone 2 in 3 cases, in zone 1 in 4 cases, and in zone 0 in 3 cases. The custom made scallop was designed to preserve flow in the left subclavian artery in three patients, in the left common carotid artery in four, and in the innominate artery in three. No proximal type I endoleak occurred and proximal sealing was achieved in all cases, with a technical success rate of 100%. All targeted vessels were patent. During a mean follow up of 12 ± 5 months, no conversion to open surgical repair and no aortic rupture occurred. One patient died post-operatively from myocardial infarction and one patient suffered a stroke with complete recovery. One patient had a distal type I endoleak on the 6 month CT scan and is scheduled for distal extension. No paraplegia, retrograde dissection and no other aortic related complications were recorded. Proximal scalloped stent grafts appear to be an effective additional tool for TEVAR of TAA when dealing with short or angulated proximal necks.

Results of aberrant right subclavian artery aneurysm repair

The objective of this multicenter registry was to review current treatments and late results of repair of aneurysm of aberrant right subclavian artery (AARSA). All consecutive AARSA repairs from 2006 to 2013 in seven centers were reviewed. End points were 30-day and late mortality, reintervention rate, and AARSA-related death. Twenty-one AARSA repairs were included (57% men; mean age, 67 years); 3 ruptures (14%) required emergent treatment; 12 (57%) were symptomatic for dysphagia (33%), dysphonia (24%), or pain (19%). Eight cases (38%) presented with thoracic aortic aneurysm, two with intramural hematoma, and one with acute type B aortic dissection. Mean AARSA diameter was 4.2 cm; a single bicarotid common trunk was present in 38% of cases. The majority of patients underwent hybrid intervention (n = 15; 71%) consisting of single (n = 2) or bilateral (n = 12) subclavian to carotid transposition or bypass or ascending aorta to subclavian bypass (n = 1) plus thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR); 19% of cases underwent open repair and 9% simple TEVAR with AARSA overstenting. Perioperative death occurred in two patients (9%): in one case after TEVAR in ruptured AARSA, requiring secondary sternotomy and aortic banding; and in an elective case due to multiorgan failure after a hybrid procedure. Median follow-up was 30 (interquartile range, 15-46) months. The Kaplan-Meier estimate of survival at 36 months was 90% (standard error, 0.64). Late AARSA-related death in one case was due to AARSA-esophageal fistula presenting with continuing backflow from distal AARSA and previous TEVAR. At computed tomography controls, one type I endoleak and one type II endoleak were detected; the latter required reintervention by aneurysm wrapping and ligature of collaterals. AARSA-related death was more frequent after TEVAR, a procedure reserved for ruptures, compared with elective open or hybrid repair. Hybrid repair is the preferred therapeutic option for patients presenting with AARSA. Midterm results show high rates of clinical success with low risk of reintervention. Simple endografting presents high risk of related death; these findings underline the importance of achieving complete sealing to avoid treatment failures.

VS2. Open Repair of Distal Aortic Failure Following TEVAR for Type B Aortic Dissection

This case illustrates the management of distal aortic failure following previous proximal thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for type B aortic dissection via an open approach. The patient is a 59-year-old woman with chronic hypertension and multiple previous aortic interventions, including ascending and arch repair related to acute intramural hematoma. After many years of stability, she developed an acute type B dissection distal to her previous repair with right lower extremity malperfusion and was treated with TEVAR. On routine surveillance imaging, a 7.2-cm type V thoracoabdominal aneurysm distal to her stent grafts rapidly developed due to a new entry tear. Her anatomy was not suitable for Food and Drug Administration-approved endovascular therapy. After extensive counseling discussing the risks and benefits, she elected to proceed with definitive open aortic reconstruction. Our standard thoracoabdominal incision was made, and the aorta was exposed via retroperitoneal approach. The left inferior pulmonary vein and left femoral artery were cannulated to provide partial heart bypass and distal perfusion. The aorta was doubly clamped, and an aortotomy was made and extended appropriately, exposing the distal extent of the previous TEVAR. The distal portion of the TEVAR was resected, and reconstruction was performed using a Dacron graft. The proximal anastomosis was incorporated into the remaining distal TEVAR graft, and a beveled distal anastomosis was fashioned to the visceral aortic segment. The left renal artery was reimplanted as a Carell patch. The patient tolerated the procedure well, aside from brief need for hemodialysis therapy. By postoperative day 7, the patient had returned to her baseline renal function. She was discharged to a rehabilitation facility on postoperative day 12 for further convalescence.