Popliteal artery aneurysm: when open, when endo?

The purpose of this article was to obtain a more clear view in the management of popliteal artery aneurysms (PAAs). When do we need to treat it and how is it best treated? After going through multiple review articles and case reports concerning this matter, we came to the following conclusions. Repair of a PAA is indicated when it reaches a postero-anterior diameter of 3 cm (at higher risk for thrombosis) or becomes symptomatic (mild claudication or severe ischemic symptoms). Whether the repair is then performed in an endovascular (Endovascular repair) or open way (Open repair), depends on the personal experience and clinical evaluation of the surgeon.

Stenting complex aorta aneurysms with the Cardiatis multilayer flow modulator: first impressions.

OBJECTIVES: Our aim was to assess the feasibility and efficacy of the Cardiatis multilayer flow modulator in the treatment of complex aorta aneurysms. METHODS: This is a single-center prospective registry. Six patients (4 males and 2 females; mean age 74 years) with complex aorta aneurysms (unsuitable for endovascular repair with standard, fenestrated, or branched stent grafts) were treated with the Cardiatis multilayer flow modulator. RESULTS: Clinical success was 100%. Median follow-up was 10 months. One patient died the third postoperative day due to aneurysm rupture. Four aneurysms were completely thrombosed between 1 and 6 months after the procedure. The patency of the covered aortic branches was 100%. At 6 months, the sac volume was decreased in two patients, increased in two patients and remains stable in one patient. There were no stent migrations, retractions, thrombosis, fractures, or reinterventions. CONCLUSIONS: The device preserves flow into the covered aortic branches and completed aneurysm thrombosis occurs gradually; however, the stent did not prevent rupture immediately after the implantation. Longer follow-up is mandatory to prove the efficacy of this technology.