Stent-graft Implantation Research Articles

Endovascular treatment of spurious aneurysm of the aorto-femoral shunt with the use of a stent graft

This report presents a clinical case of endovascular treatment of a rare complication - a spurious aneurysm from a linear aorto-femoral shunt. We performed implantation of a self-expandable stent graft directly into the vascular prosthesis in the projection of the defect of its wall. We tried to foresee possible procedural complications, and in this regard to justify the choice of tactics of treatment and selection of the applied tools. Given the lack of available literature data on the methods and techniques of interventions in this pathology, we believe that our experience will be interesting and useful for professionals involved in the treatment of patients with vascular diseases.

Endovascular Reconstruction from Aortic Valve to Aortic Arch Using One-Piece Valved-Fenestrated Stent Graft with a Branch: A Proof-of-Concept Study.

To explore the feasibility of endovascular reconstruction of aortic root including aortic valve, sinus of valsalva and ascending aorta by a single stent-graft, a novel valved stent-graft with two fenestrae for preserving the coronary arteries was designed and performed in-vitro on a pig heart based circulation simulating system. Pig hearts were harvested from 30 healthy adult female pigs weighing between 60-65 kilograms. Before sacrifice, all the pigs received aortic computed tomography angiography (CTA) examinations and morphologic parameters of aortic root were measured. Then we customized the valved stent-grafts according to the CTA measurements. After the pig heart was fixed on the special platform according to the original orientation and connected to the circulation system, the stent graft was delivered through transapical access and covered the segment from aortic annulus to proximal part of aortic arch under DSA (digital subtraction angiography) guidance. Then changes of coronary flow before and after the procedure and fenestration alignment with coronary ostia were analyzed. The overall technical success rate was 100%. The valve functions tested by ultrasound were in good condition under 120 mmHg circulation pressure. The flow of left coronary artery (LCA) did not decrease, but increased after the stent-graft implantation (340 ± 2.06 mL/min versus 288 ± 5.29 mL/min, P < .05). Similarly, the flow of right coronary artery (RCA) also increased (392 ± 9.17 mL/min versus 348 ± 8.01 mL/min; P < .05). The final angiography confirmed that both coronary arteries were patent. When generally observed from outer wall of valsalva sinus, both RCA and LCA orifices were aligned with the fenestrae. In 4 cases, the autologous valve leaflets blocked nearly 20% of the LCA fenestra's area, but the flow did not significantly decrease in these cases. Stimulated on a pig heart-based circulation simulation system, the one-piece valved-fenestrated stent graft with a branch could be delivered via the transapical access and deployed accurately, which achieved endovascular reconstruction of aortic valve, sinus of valsalva and ascending aorta while preserving the coronary artery perfusion by fenestrations. More in-vivo experiments on animal models are mandatory to further verify its efficacy and safety.

Midterm cerebral outcomes of Stanford type A aortic dissection in patients who underwent novel triple-branched stent graft implantation combined with intraoperative monitoring of regional cerebral oxygen saturation.

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the cerebral outcomes of patients underwent novel triple‐branched stent graft implantation combined with the intraoperative monitoring of regional cerebral oxygen saturation.MethodsOne hundred thirty‐seven consecutive patients who underwent the surgery of triple‐branched stent graft implantation in our department were enrolled in this retrospective case‐control study. The patients in group A received brain protection based on the intraoperative monitoring of regional cerebral oxygen saturation and the patients in group B received conventional brain protection. The general clinical data, the types of corrective surgeries, the intraoperative situations, the postoperative complications, and the midterm outcomes of the patients were analyzed.ResultsThe incidence of postoperative cerebral dysfunction in the patients of group A was significantly lower than that in the patients in group B (3.2% vs 14.9%, P = .020). We found significant differences in the incubation times (30.3 ± 22.1 vs 42.3 ± 27.9 hours, P = .014), the lengths of intensive care unit stay (58.0 ± 54.3 vs 79.7 ± 55.5 hours, P = .004), and the hospital stays (19.3 ± 6.7 vs 24.9 ± 17.3 days, P = .045). A descending trend in the mortality rates was observed between the patients in the two groups based on the 20 months of observation; however, this trend was not statistically significant (1.6% vs 6.8%, P = .218).ConclusionsThe novel triple‐branched stent graft implantation procedure combined with intraoperative monitoring of the regional cerebral oxygen saturation was an effective treatment for Stanford type A aortic dissection, with a relatively low incidence of postoperative cerebral dysfunction.

A swine aortic dissection model applying to the hemodynamic and endovascular aortic repair study

Objective To construct an aortic dissection (AD) model in swine applying to the hemodynamic and endovascular aortic repair study. Methods Ten swine of AD were created using open surgical procedures under general anesthesia. The healthy aorta and dissection propagation were evaluated using digital subtraction angiography (DSA) before and after the procedure. The hemodynamic measurements were performed during the follow up. Animals were scanned with computed tomography scan during the 12 months of follow-up and subjected to post-experimental autopsy. Three models underwent endovascular stent-graft implantation through abdominal aorta access. Results All models were successfully created. The mean time for establishing the model was 44.1 min (range 27.4-65.0 min), while the duration of total aortic occlusion was 21.2 min (range 14.3-34.5 min). At the first day post-procedures, two animals died of anesthesia related complications and aortic rupture, respectively. The average follow-up was 8.4 months. The mean diameter of the aorta at the primary entry tear was 18.9 mm. The total propagation length was observed in the models during the follow-up was 147.6 mm, with the maximum diameter of the dissection aorta of 24.1 mm. Most of the distal tears were found around the branches fed by the aorta according to the CT images and autopsy. Histopathological examination demonstrated the fibers were stretched linearly at the outside of the false lumen. The signals of Doppler measurements of velocity and pressure in the models were acceptable. No complication was observed after stent-graft repair in the three models. Conclusion This model in swine can be applied in hemodynamic and endovascular aortic repair study for AD. Key words: Aortic dissection; Swine; Model; Hemodynamics; Endovascular repair

Endovascular treatment of complex diseases of the thoracic aorta-10 years single centre experience.

Introduction of invasive endovascular techniques constituted a real a breakthrough in the treatment of aortic aneurysm dissection and rupture. We assessed the effectiveness and safety of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in patients with thoracic aortic pathologies. Between 2007 and 2017, 118 patients with thoracic aortic pathology underwent TEVAR. Among them, 20 (16.9%) patients required hybrid procedures. Stent grafts indication were thoracic aortic aneurysm in 46 (39.0%) patients, type B dissection in 68 (57.6%) patients and other indications in 4 (3.3%). Procedural success rate, in-hospital and late mortality and morbidity were evaluated. The patients were followed-up for a mean of 55 months (range, 6-118 months). The technical success rate was 96%. Five patients died during the first 30 days after procedure (mortality 4.2%), four due to ischemic stroke followed by multi-organ failure and another one hemodynamically significant type I endoleak. Most of them were noted in the first years of our study. Five others died during post-discharged period. Four patients developed neurological complications, including stroke (n=2; 1.7%) and paraparesis (n=2; 1.7%). There were 6 (5.1%) primary (5 type I and 1 type II) and 3 (2.5%) secondary endoleaks (1 type I and 2 type III). Secondary interventions were required in 8 subjects. There was one case of stent collapse and two retrograde aortic dissection. Treatment of descending aortic diseases by using stent graft implantation has become the method of choice, decreasing the risk of open surgery, especially in patients with severe clinical state and comorbidities. However, effectiveness and safety may be achieved by experience team.

Single Centre Experience with Anaconda Custom-made Fenestrated Stent Graft in the Endovascular Repair of the Juxtarenal Aneurysms

Aim: The fenestrated Anaconda custom-made stent graft is one of the recently widely accepted fenestrated devices for managing complex juxta- and pararenal aortic pathology. This study showed its feasibility for treatment of challenging juxtarenal anatomy of the abdominal aorta. Methods: Over the period of 12 months, 9 patients with juxtarenal aortic aneurysm underwent fenestrated stent graft implantation in our institution. The graft fenestrations were customized on the basis of computerized tomography (CT-Angiography; CTA). Selected visceral ostia were protected with covered balloon-expandable stents after partial stent graft deployment. The perioperative and short term data were collected prospectively. Results: The mean aneurysm diameter was 58.4 mm (range 46-73 mm). The mean infrarenal neck length was 3.5 mm (range 0-7 mm), no patient had a severe (&gt;60°) angulation of proximal neck. 18 fenestration for renal arteries, 1 for SMA and 3 for coeliac´s were treated with Advanta V12 covered stent. All the target vessels were cannulated successfully through fenestrations and all the stent grafts were successfully deployed in patients with no technical issue in the release mechanism. All the patients have undergone 6 month follow-up, no aneurysm related or aneurysm-unrelated deaths were reported. On the CTA scan, 3 of the patients had a weak type IIb endoleak; no type I or Type III endoleak was demonstrated. All target vessels were open without an instance of branch-stent stenosis/occlusion. No reintervention was needed. Conclusion: The usage of custom-made Anaconda fenestrated stent graft for endovascular treatment of juxtarenal aortic aneurysms is feasible with acceptable intermediate-term results.

Endovascular Repair of Ascending Aortic Pathologies With Tubular Endografts: A Single-Center Experience

Purpose: To investigate the endovascular treatment of ascending aortic pathologies of high-risk patients unsuitable for open repair. Materials and Methods: From 2010 to 2017, 24 patients (mean age 70±15 years, range 29–90; 18 men) were treated at a single center for various pathologies of the ascending aorta, including acute or chronic type A aortic dissections (n=16), pseudoaneurysms (n=6), fixation of a dislocated percutaneous aortic valve (n=2), and miscellaneous indications (n=3). The patients were selected following an interdisciplinary case evaluation, attended by cardiologists and cardiac and vascular surgeons. The Zenith Ascend TAA Endovascular Graft was implanted; simultaneous procedures were performed in 13 patients. Of the total 27 Ascend TEVAR procedures (24 primary and 3 reinterventions), 17 were performed urgently and 10 electively. The primary outcome measure was 30-day survival. The secondary outcomes were cardiovascular complications, midterm survival, and reintervention rate. Results: Clinical success was achieved in all but 1 case. The 30-day survival was 79% (19/24); of the 5 deaths only 1 was directly related to the endograft implanted. In the 30-day postoperative period, there was 1 myocardial infarction, 2 major strokes, a mycotic pseudoaneurysm, a case of Ascend TEVAR–induced high-grade aortic insufficiency, and a minor stroke; 1 patient developed paraplegia after concurrent implantation of a 4-branched abdominal stent-graft. Two patients had a reintervention within 30 days for the pseudoaneurysm and the aortic insufficiency, respectively. During a mean follow-up of 11 months (0–35 months), there was 1 late death (cancer) and 1 additional reintervention at 10 months for a late type Ia endoleak (12.5% reintervention rate). Conclusion: Endovascular repair of ascending aortic pathologies with stent-grafts is a feasible treatment option with acceptable early and midterm outcomes in high-risk patients unsuitable for open surgery. The complexity of Ascend TEVAR might justify higher reintervention rates.

In situ laser fenestration for revascularization of aortic arch during treatment for iatrogenic type A aortic dissection

BackgroundIatrogenic aortic dissection is a rare and fatal complication. Its treatment was challenging and controversial especially in patients with previous cardiac procedure. This study aimed to present the case of a patient with aortic dissection after previous open cardiac surgery who was successfully treated by in situ laser fenestration for revascularization of aortic arch.Case presentationA 65-year-old man suffered severe aortic and mitral valve regurgitation was treated by open cardiac aortic valve replacement (biological valve, Edwards) and mitral valve repair. During the sixth-month follow-up, computed tomography angiography (CTA) scan revealed an aortic dissection that extended from the ascending aorta to both femoral arteries. After stabilized by medical treatment, the patient was treated by endovascular stent-graft implantation and in situ laser (holmium laser, energy: 0 5 J, frequency: 5 Hz.) fenestration for revascularization of aortic arch in our one-stop hybrid operating room. The patient recovered without any clinical complication and was discharged 5 days after the procedure.ConclusionsOur work suggested that in situ laser fenestration for revascularization of aortic arch is a feasible, effective, and safe treatment in patients with iatrogenic aortic dissection.

Malperfusions in Acute Type B Aortic Dissection—Predictors of Outcomes

Acute type B aortic dissection (AoD) with malperfusion is a rare and complex disease. In this specific setting, invasive treatment is generally required to improve aortic branch vessel flow. Thoracic aorta stent grafting (TEVAR) of the proximal descending thoracic aorta to cover/exclude the proximal intimal entry tear would promote resolution of the dynamic component (the most prevalent) of the malperfusion conflict by redirecting the flow within the true lumen. The aim was to study outcomes of patients undergoing TEVAR for acute (<14days) type B AoD complicated with malperfusion and to depict any preoperative and intraoperative predictors that could affect the prognosis of those patients. From March 2005 to January 2016, all patients treated with TEVAR for acute type B AoD with malperfusion in 2 European high-volume aortic centers were retrospectively studied. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative details were collected. Preoperative computed tomography angiogram was reanalyzed on a dedicated 3D workstation (Aquarius iNtuition Viewer, TeraRecon). Thirty-day malperfusion-related complication and mortality rates were determined. Logistic regression model was used to assess preoperative and intraoperative factors affecting postoperative outcomes; in particular, details on the mechanisms of malperfusion and organ(s) involved were entered into the model and tested. A total of 41 patients (60 years old [interquartile range (IQR): 51-68.5]; 78% men) have been included in the analysis. Patients were mostly (68.3%) affected by only 1 malperfusion syndrome, with renal ischemia being the most frequent (53.6%). The median length of aortic coverage was 197mm (IQR: 157-209). Additional visceral/renal/iliac stentings were performed after stent graft implantation for 25 branches in 17 patients (41%). The 30-day mortality rate was 17.1%. All but 2 early deaths were related to malperfusion. The number of malperfusion syndromes was the only independent factor associated to increasing 30-day malperfusion-related complications or deaths (3 vs 1, HR=30.3 [P=0.001]; 3 vs 2, HR=9.9 [P=0.004]). Prognosis of patients with acute type B AoD complicated initially with malperfusion syndrome(s) is severe, especially if several territories are ischemic. Early identification of those complications can be lifesaving but still lacks hard criteria.

Predisposing Factors for Migration of the Iliac Limb and Reintervention after Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

Migration of the iliac limb after endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) can result in type 1b and 3 endoleaks, which are relatively common causes of reintervention after EVAR. The aim of the present study was to investigate the factors influencing migration of the iliac limb and methods of treatment. From April 2012 to September 2017, 4 patients experienced migration of the iliac limb, requiring additional iliac stent graft implantation intraoperatively or at follow-up at our institute. Patient 1 was a 74-year-old man in whom preoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) revealed a large aneurysm. The patient underwent EVAR with a bifurcated stent graft, and the left iliac stent graft migrated into the aneurysm sac. Patient 2 was a 53-year-old man in whom CTA revealed a large abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) involving the bilateral common iliac artery (CIA), with occlusion of the left hypogastric artery. An iliac stent graft was deployed to the right CIA to preserve the hypogastric artery. CTA, at 5 years of follow-up, showed migration of the right iliac limb and impending rupture. Patient 3 was a 61-year-old man with a ruptured AAA, and CTA revealed a large AAA and dilated CIA. The patient underwent EVAR with a bifurcated stent graft. Three years after EVAR, CTA showed that the right iliac limb migrated and kinked, with rupture of the stent graft. Patient 4 was an 80-year-old man with a ruptured AAA and aortocaval fistula. CTA revealed a large aneurysm involving the bilateral CIA. The patient underwent urgent EVAR with a bifurcated stent graft, and a cuff was deployed to seal the landing zone of the left CIA to preserve the hypogastric artery. Type 3 endoleak occurred because of the migration and detachment of the left iliac limb. All 4 patients underwent additional iliac stent graft implantation to connect or reline the iliac limb. The mean diameter of the aneurysms was 85.3±18.9mm, and 2 patients were diagnosed with ruptured AAAs. The mean diameter, length, and proportional engagement rate of the CIA that experienced migration of the iliac limb were 25.50±11.1mm, 32.8±6.6mm, and 72.75%±17.88%, respectively. Oversizing of the iliac stent graft was 10-20% in 2 patients and was less than 10% in the other 2 patients. The migrated iliac limbs were bell-bottom stent grafts. All patients underwent additional iliac stent graft implantation successfully, and there were no deaths or complications perioperatively. The patients were followed up from 7 months to 3 years and remained in good condition. Migration of the iliac limb after EVAR was influenced by a complex combination of several factors including a large aneurysm (>60mm in diameter), dilated or aneurysmal CIA (>18mm in diameter), short length of fixation (<70%), lower degree of iliac limb oversizing (<10-20%), and bell-bottom of the iliac limb. Patients with these factors require more vigorous surveillance after EVAR. The implantation of an additional stent graft is effective and is the most common reintervention procedure.

Endovascular Treatment for a Perforated Superficial Femoral Vein Graft for an Infected Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm.

The patient had an infected abdominal aortic aneurysm. Aneurysmectomy and in situ reconstruction of the abdominal aorta using the bilateral superficial femoral veins with omentopexy were performed. On postoperative day 18, hematemesis and melena occurred. Computed tomography showed extravasation from the right graft limb, and gastrointestinal endoscopy showed a duodenal fistula. Covered stent implantation was performed for the limb. Bleeding from the contralateral graft limb occurred the next day, and the patient underwent covered stent graft implantation for that limb followed by partial duodenectomy and duodenojejunostomy. Intraoperative findings demonstrated a pinhole leakage from the branch ligation site on both vein grafts.

Rotational Atherectomy Plus Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty for the Treatment of Total In-Stent Occlusions in Iliac and Infrainguinal Arteries

Purpose: To analyze the long-term outcomes of a hybrid treatment method combining rotational atherectomy with drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty in patients with total in-stent occlusion in the iliac and/or infrainguinal arteries. Materials and Methods: Between April 2014 and June 2017, 74 consecutive patients (mean age 66.7±9.7 years; 49 men) with total occlusion of a previously implanted stent underwent endovascular recanalization using the Rotarex system and DCB angioplasty. Half (37, 50%) of the patients had critical limb ischemia (CLI), and 30 (41%) of the procedures were performed in emergency. Mean lesion length was 22±15 cm. Results: Overall procedure success was achieved in 73 (98.6%) patients. Six (8.1%) CLI patients developed distal embolism that responded to thrombolysis. Three (4.1%) dissections did not require treatment, while 1 (1.4%) perforation necessitated stent-graft implantation. In all, 33 (44.6%) patients had an additional stent implanted, mainly due to a suboptimal outcome (n=28) or complications (n=5 including the stent-graft). The restenosis rate assessed by duplex ultrasound at 12 months was 20.5% (15/73); 4 (5.5%) patients underwent target lesion revascularization. Recurrent restenosis was more frequent in patients with Rutherford category 5 ischemia (p=0.005), in emergency procedures (p=0.021), after extensive procedures involving 3 independent vessel segments (p=0.016), and if a complication arose during the procedure (p<0.001). In multivariate analysis, only occurrence of a procedural complication was an independent predictor of recurrent restenosis at 1 year (OR 63.3, 95% CI 5.7 to 701.5). Conclusion: These findings imply that rotational atherectomy and DCB angioplasty may provide satisfactory outcomes in the treatment of total in-stent occlusion, with a satisfactory recurrent restenosis rate at 12 months.

False lumen embolization in chronic aortic dissection promotes thoracic aortic remodeling at midterm follow-up

ObjectiveFailure of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in chronic aortic dissections can be partially explained by retrograde false lumen (FL) flow through distal re-entry tears. After implantation of a thoracic stent graft, FL thrombosis occurs in less than 50% of the cases. The objectives of this study were to describe the feasibility and outcomes of FL embolization in patients with chronic aortic dissections. MethodsBetween June 2015 and January 2018, 27 patients (mean age, 61 ± 14 years) with chronic aortic dissection underwent FL embolization as an adjunct during or after TEVAR placement procedure. Indications for embolization were (1) symptomatic chronic aortic dissections with pain or rapid growth of aortic diameter (≥5 mm/y) requiring rapid exclusion of the aneurysm, (2) aneurysmal dilatation with persistent FL retrograde flow after TEVAR, and (3) large FL aneurysms (≥55 mm) that might lead to persistent retrograde flow. Twenty patients presented with type B chronic aortic dissections (74.1%) and seven presented a residual type A chronic aortic dissections (25.9%). Eight patients had a previous aortic arch replacement (29.6%). Six patients had previous repair with TEVAR (22.2%). The delay between the onset of dissection and the first endovascular repair was 47 months (range, 3-144). Spinal fluid drainage was used in 74.1% of cases (20/27 patients). Embolization devices included coils and vascular plugs. ResultsThe technical success rate was 100% (27/27). Complete spinal cord ischemia was observed in one patient (3.7%). There was one hospital death from pneumonia after zone 1 supra-aortic trunk debranching with TEVAR and embolization. After the index procedure, FL thrombosis was observed in 81.5% of patients (22/27) on late phase computed tomography angiography. Five patients required two or more embolization procedures, leading to a high rate of complete FL thrombosis (92.6%). One patient presented a type IB endoleak and one patient presented a type II endoleak. Radiologic follow-up was 20 ± 10 months. The maximum thoracic aortic diameter significantly decreased from 63 mm to 54 ± 10 mm (P < .001). ConclusionsEmbolization of the FL of chronic aortic dissections is technically feasible with a low morbidity rate. The FL thrombosis is observed in the majority of case and promotes favorable thoracic aortic remodeling. Longer follow-up is needed to confirm these good results on the thoracic aorta and this technique may, therefore, improve the results of TEVAR in chronic aortic dissections.

Retrospective analysis of stentgraft implantation in Department of Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology of the 4th Independent Public Clinical Hospital in Lublin in 2016

Retrospective analysis of stentgraft implantation in Department of Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology of the 4th Independent Public Clinical Hospital in Lublin in 2016

Distal aortic remodelling after the standard and the elongated frozen elephant trunk procedure.

The aim of this study was to evaluate abdominal aortic remodelling after the standard compared with the elongated frozen elephant trunk (FET) technique in patients with aortic dissection. Twenty-six patients underwent surgery and were randomized into 2 groups. Fifteen patients were treated with the standard FET technique. Eleven patients were treated with the advanced FET technique using an additional thoracic stent graft implanted down to the coeliac artery, within 30 days after the first stent graft implantation. Preoperative and postoperative and 5-year follow-up computed tomography aortic scans were obtained along the stent graft (A), between the distal edge of the graft and the coeliac trunk (B) and at the abdominal aorta (C). In the standard FET group, positive and stable aortic remodelling occurred in segments A (100%), B (87%) and C (87%). Negative remodelling was found in 2/15 (13%) patients; 1 patient had an endovascular reintervention. In the elongated FET group, positive and stable remodelling were observed in segments A (100%), B (100%) and C (90.9%). Negative remodelling occurred in 1/11 (9.1%) patients. No reintervention was required. Cumulative survival, freedom from negative remodelling and distal aortic reintervention in the standard FET group and the elongated FET group were 72 vs 100% (P = 0.29); 67.5 vs 80% (P = 0.58) and 75 vs 100% (P = 0.61), respectively. The standard FET technique is an adequate measure to induce false lumen thrombosis and improve abdominal aortic remodelling. The elongated FET technique seems to be superior to the standard FET procedure in terms of freedom from aortic remodelling and the distal reintervention rate.

Wieloetapowe, wewnątrznaczyniowe leczenie ostrego, jatrogennego niedokrwienia kończyny dolnej u pacjenta z penetrującym owrzodzeniem aorty

Introduction. Acute limb ischaemia (ALI) is a potentially treatable disease of the arteries. ALI can be caused by many factors. A rare cause of ALI is embolisation due to a penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU). The endovascular approach has made progress as an alternative treatment for ALI. However, using only one method of treatment may not be enough to salvage the limb. Case report. We present a case of an iatrogenic, intraoperative embolisation of the lower limb arteries after left external iliac artery (EIA) stenting in a patient with a potential source of embolisation from a PAU. In the treatment process, we performed an elective percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, left EIA stenting, and emergency intra-arterial thrombolysis. The patient was discharged from the clinic in a good condition and without limb ischaemia. After one month, an aortic stent graft was implanted to supply abdominal aortic aneurysm with PAU. Control angiography of computed tomography of the abdominal aorta and lower limb arteries was performed, and a correct stent graft and stent patency in left EIA was demonstrated. Conclusions. Endovascular treatment of acute limb ischaemia may require the use of different techniques to solve the problem, especially in complicated cases. Catheter directed thrombolysis is an effective method of treatment in an iatrogenic, distal embolisation. Stent graft implantation seems to be an effective method of eliminating emboli sourced from the aortic ulcer.

Early- and long-term results of thoracic endovascular aortic repair for blunt traumatic thoracic aortic injury: a single-centre experience.

Endovascular repair has been proposed as an alternative to classical surgical repair for the management of blunt traumatic thoracic aortic injury. However, the long-term outcomes of endovascular repair and the risks of left subclavian coverage remain unclear. From April 2001 to August 2018, 33 patients with blunt traumatic thoracic aortic injury underwent endovascular repair in our institution. A follow-up computed tomography and a clinical examination were performed before discharge and at 1 month, and yearly or every 2 years thereafter. The mean age was 45 ± 19 years. The technical success rate was 100%. Complete coverage of the left subclavian artery (LSCA) was performed in 20 patients (60.6%). Among 20 patients with coverage of the LSCA, revascularization was performed in 1 patient. No in-hospital deaths occurred. The clinical follow-up rate was 97%, with a mean period of 7 years and a maximum of 18 years. The survival rates were 100% at 1 year, 95% at 5 years and 88.7% at 10 years after the event. Among the 5 patients (20%) who developed neurological complications, 1 who had undergone implantation of a 200-mm long stent graft and LSCA coverage without revascularization developed paraplegia during the long-term follow-up. This study demonstrates that the endovascular treatment of blunt traumatic thoracic aortic injury is a safe and effective therapeutic method over a long-term follow-up period. LSCA coverage and long stent graft placement might be indications for revascularization to prevent spinal cord injury.

Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms - Diagnosis and Treatment Strategies

Thoracic aortic aneurysms are a relatively uncommon disease, with an incidence of 10.4/100 000, with an increase in the last decades, due to the increased quality of vascular screening. Several imaging techniques like thoracic radiography, echocardiography, magnetic resonance (MRI) or positron emission tomography (PET) can be used for the diagnosis of such condition, whose first diagnosis is usually incidental. The gold standard for aneurysm evaluation is computed tomography angiography (CTA), which allows precise diameter assessment and accurate preoperative planning. Advancements in imaging techniques, through electrocardiography (ECG)-gated CTA, permit to avoid movement artifacts and have a more precise definition of proximal aortic segments (aortic arch, ascending aorta).The urgent or emergent treatment of thoracic aneurysms is indicated in symptomatic patients and in case of rupture, respectively. The current European Society for Vascular Surgery guidelines recommend the elective treatment of thoracic aneurysms with a diameter > 55 mm, since diameters of 55 - 60 mm are associated with a rupture risk of 10 %/year. Lower perioperative morbidity and mortality rates have been demonstrated for endovascular repair in comparison with open surgery. According to the current guidelines, the treatment of choice is endovascular, through the implantation of an aortic stent graft (thoracic endovascular aortic repair, TEVAR), while open surgery is reserved to young patients, fit for open surgery. Hybrid procedures, introduced in 2000, include the debranching of supra aortic vessels and TEVAR and are a well established procedure for the treatment of aneurysms involving the aortic arch. The increasing research and expertise in endovascular surgery lead to the development of complex procedures, like chimney TEVAR, fenestrated and branched TEVAR which allowed to reach proximal landing zone to the ascending aorta.

Stent graft as a bridge to allograft to treat a septic thoracic aortic pseudoaneurysm after spinal fusion

A 29-year-old woman was admitted to our institution for severe septic syndrome. Her medical history included a T6-T8 posterior spinal fusion 7 years earlier for tuberculous spondylodiscitis. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed a 70- × 58-mm pseudoaneurysm of the descending thoracic aorta extending from T6 to T8 level, surrounding the left T6 screw (A/Cover). A T6-T8 spondylodiscitis and bilateral paraspinal collections were also observed. Blood and T7 bone biopsy specimens grew Escherichia coli. To prevent an imminent pseudoaneurysm rupture and to allow cryopreserved aortic allograft (CAA) delivery, the patient first underwent conformable TAG 26- × 26- × 100-mm (W. L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, Ariz) thoracic aortic stent graft implantation under general anesthesia through a small left femoral incision. The procedure was uncomplicated. Exclusion of the pseudoaneurysm was assessed by final angiography and postoperative CT scan (B). Five days later, T2-T10 spinal fusion was conducted after infected hardware removal through a posterior approach along with drainage of the paraspinal collections. Aortic replacement using a 10-cm-long thoracic CAA was performed through a left posterolateral thoracotomy in the same operative course. A partial cardiopulmonary bypass at normothermia was established through a left femoral incision. An arterial perfusion cannula was positioned in the abdominal aorta and a venous cannula to the right atrium. During aortic replacement, a fistula was observed at the bottom of the aortic pseudoaneurysm communicating with the former location of the left T6 screw. The final step consisted of implantation in the vertebral defect of a titanium mesh cage containing autologous bone graft. Transdiaphragmatic epiploplasty was performed to isolate the CAA (C). The culture specimens of the removed orthopedic hardware and stent graft grew E. coli. Antibiotic treatment initially consisted of intravenous administration of cefotaxime and gentamycin switched postoperatively to intravenous administration of ceftriaxone for 12 weeks. Follow-up included visits at 1 month and 6 months postoperatively, and follow-up should be continued twice a year. Six months postoperatively, the patient was asymptomatic. The CT scan showed satisfactory coverage of the allograft by the omentum and the absence of allograft pseudoaneurysm or residual collection (D). Vascular injury after spinal instrumentation is a rare but life-threatening condition. Treatment of such injuries is not standardized. Previous studies have reported the use of stent grafts with good outcomes.1Zerati A.E. Leiderman D.B. Teixeira W.G. Narazaki D.K. Cristante A.F. Wolosker N. et al.Endovascular treatment of late aortic erosive lesion by pedicle screw without screw removal: case report and literature review.Ann Vasc Surg. 2017; 39: 285.e17-285.e21Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF Scopus (5) Google Scholar In our case, we believed that simple endovascular treatment was not possible because of the high risk of stent graft infection. We believed that CAA represented the best option in a septic field, as is the case with aortic graft infections.2Corvera J.S. Blitzer D. Copeland H. Murphy D. Hess Jr., P.J. Pillai S.T. et al.Repair of thoracic and thoracoabdominal mycotic aneurysms and infected aortic grafts using allograft.Ann Thorac Surg. 2018; 106: 1129-1135Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (16) Google Scholar Potential postoperative CAA pseudoaneurysm formation requires close and lifelong follow-up. The patient consented to the use of related medical history and images for educational purposes.

Relationship between the extent of aortic replacement and stent graft for acute DeBakey type I aortic dissection and outcomes: Results from a medical center in Taiwan.

BackgroundTotal arch replacement (TAR) and/or stent graft implantation has been proposed as the primary surgical treatment for acute DeBakey type I aortic dissection. However, the suggestion was based on excellent outcomes of high-volume or aortic centers. How about the real results in most places around the world? The purpose of this study was intended to compared in-hospital mortality, major complications, and aortic remodeling between TAR and/or stent graft implantation in a medical center of northern Taiwan.MethodsBetween January 2008 and August 2017, 156 patients with acute type I aortic dissection underwent surgery at our institution, including proximal aortic replacement only (Group I, n = 72), concomitant TAR (Group II, n = 23), concomitant TAR extended with stent grafting (Group III, n = 45), and proximal aortic replacement with descending aortic stent grafting (Group IV, n = 16).ResultsNo significant differences were found in underlying disease and preoperative presentations, including operative risk among four groups. Overall in-hospital mortality was 22.4% (13 patients in Group I, 9 in Group II, 12 in Group III, and 1 in Group IV). New-onset stroke occurred in 15 patients postoperatively (3 patients [5.2%] in Group I, 3 [21.4%] in Group II, and 9 [26.5%] in Group III after excluding 36 patients with documented preoperative cerebrovascular accident or cerebral malperfusion). Root reconstruction and TAR were significantly associated with in-hospital mortality. TAR was significantly associated with surgery-related stroke. Compared to those in Group I, true lumen expansion and false lumen shrinkage during 1-year aortic remodeling were significantly higher in Groups III and IV. Both TAR and descending aorta stent grafting were significantly associated with decreased risk of patent false lumen.ConclusionsProximal aortic replacement remains the preferred surgical strategy for acute type I aortic dissection, with lower mortality and neurological complications. Proximal descending aorta stent grafting may benefit aortic remodeling, even without TAR.