Prospective nonrandomized study to evaluate cone beam computed tomography for technical assessment of standard and complex endovascular aortic repair.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to analyze the utility of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) for technical assessment of standard and complex endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). METHODS: Data of consecutive patients who underwent standard or complex EVAR in 2016 and 2017 at our institution were entered into a prospective database and analyzed retrospectively. There were 154 patients (126 male; mean age, 74 ± 8 years) enrolled in a prospective study between 2016 and 2017. A total of 170 aortic procedures were investigated, including 85 fenestrated-branched EVARs (F-BEVARs), 42 abdominal and thoracic EVARs, 32 EVARs with iliac branch devices, and 11 aorta-related interventions. Technical assessment was done using CBCT with and without contrast enhancement, digital subtraction angiography (DSA), and computed tomography angiography (CTA). Patients with stage 3B or stage 4 chronic kidney disease had CBCT without contrast enhancement. Radiation exposure (mean dose-area product), effective dose (ED), and amount of iodine contrast agent were analyzed. End points were presence of any endoleak, positive findings warranting possible intervention (stent kink or compression, type I or type III endoleak, dissection, thrombus), and need for secondary intervention. RESULTS: Radiation exposure and amount of iodine contrast agent were significantly higher (P < .05) for F-BEVAR compared with other aortic procedures (174±101 Gy∙cm2 vs 1135±113 Gy∙cm2 and 144±60 mL vs 122±49 mL). ED averaged 74±36 mSv for the aortic procedure, 18 ± 18 mSv for fluoroscopy, 7 ± 7 mSv for DSA acquisition, 15±7 mSv for CBCT, and 34±17 mSv for CTA imaging (P < .001). Endoleak detection was significantly higher (P < .001) with CBCT (53%) compared with DSA (14%) and CTA (46%). CBCT identified 52 positive findings in 43 patients (28%), higher for F-BEVAR compared with other aortic procedures (35% vs 16%; P = .01). Positive findings included stent compression or kink in 29 patients (17%), type I or type III endoleak in 16 patients (10%), and arterial dissection or thrombus in 7 patients (5%). Of these, 28 patients (18%) had positive findings that prompted an intraoperative (17%) or delayed intervention (1%). Another 15 patients (10%) with minor positive findings were observed with no clinical consequence. DSA alone would not have detected positive findings in 34 of 43 patients (79%), including 21 patients (49%) who needed secondary interventions. CTA diagnosed two (1%) additional endoleaks requiring intervention (one type IC, one type IIIC) that were not diagnosed by CBCT. Replacing DSA and CTA by CBCT would have resulted in 53% ± 13% reduction in amount of iodine contrast agent and 55% ± 12% reduction in ED (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: CBCT reliably detected positive findings prompting immediate revisions in nearly one of five patients, with the highest rates among F-BEVAR patients. Detection of any endoleak was higher with CBCT compared with DSA or CTA, but most endoleaks were observed. DSA alone failed to detect positive findings warranting revisions.

Preloaded Catheters and Guide-Wire Systems to Facilitate Catheterization During Fenestrated and Branched Endovascular Aortic Repair.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to review the clinical outcomes for patients treated for pararenal (PRA) and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) by fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair (F-BEVAR) using preloaded systems (PLS). METHODS: We reviewed clinical data of 83 patients (64 male, mean age 75 ± 7 years) enrolled in a prospective study to investigate F-BEVAR. All patients had PLS, which included two catheters or two through-and-through guide wires with 12-Fr trans-brachial sheaths positioned in the descending thoracic aorta. Outcome measurements were technical success defined as successful deployment of the main fenestrated stent graft and cannulation of all target vessels, total endovascular time, total lower extremity ischemia time and complications, 30-day mortality, and major adverse events (MAEs). RESULTS: Aneurysm extent was PRA in 27 patients and TAAA in 56 (35 extent IV and 21 extent I-III). A total of 333 target vessels were incorporated with an average of 4 ± 0.4 vessels per patient. Technical success was 99.7%. Total endovascular time was 160 ± 51 min. Sixty-five (78%) patients had motor and somatosensory evoked potentials monitoring, and lower extremity ischemia time was 115 ± 42 min. There were no 30-day mortalities. Fifteen patients (18%) had MAEs, including three (3.6%) minor ischemic strokes. There were no upper extremity complications. All ischemic strokes occurred in female patients (3.6% vs. 0%, P = .001). One (1.2%) patient had paraplegia. CONCLUSION: This study shows high technical success and early lower limb reperfusion using PLS with trans-brachial access. The risk of stroke, especially in female patients, should be carefully assessed by review of preoperative arch imaging.

Comparison of Perioperative Outcomes of Patients with Iliac Aneurysms Treated by Open Surgery or Endovascular Repair with Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis.

BACKGROUND: Treatment of common and internal iliac aneurysms is usually done by open surgery. A novel iliac branch endoprosthesis (IBE) is commercially available with encouraging initial results. Our objective is to compare perioperative outcomes of patients with iliac aneurysms treated by open surgery (OS) versus endovascular repair with IBE. METHODS: The study was a retrospective, single-center review of patients who were treated for aortoiliac or isolated common and/or internal iliac artery aneurysms from 2014 to 2017. Patients with connective tissue disorders, infected grafts, or thoracoabdominal aneurysms were excluded. Primary outcomes were perioperative mortality, length of hospital (LOS) and intensive care unit (ICU) stay, estimated blood loss, need for red blood cell transfusion (RBC), and perioperative reinterventions. RESULTS: Sixty-seven patients (96% male) were treated with OS (n = 25, mean age 68 ± 8 years) or IBE (n = 42, mean age 73 ± 8 years; P = 0.02) with 1 symptomatic patient in each group. Perioperative mortality occurred in 1 patient in the OS group (4%), with no mortality in the IBE group (P = 0.37) Total LOS and ICU stay was higher for OS compared to IBE (total stay 7.5 ± 3.4 vs. 1.7 ± 1.4 days for IBE, P < 0.0001 and ICU LOS 3.3 ± 2.1 vs. 0.1 ± 0.4 days, P < 0.0001). Estimated blood loss was higher for patients undergoing OS (4,732 ± 2,540 mL) compared to patients treated with IBE (263 ± 451 mL, P < 0.0001), resulting in higher RBC transfusion requirements (1.5 ± 2.4 vs. 0.2 ± 0.8 units, P = 0.001). Five patients in the OS group had early procedure-related reinterventions, while 2 patients in the IBE group required reintervention for access site complications (20% vs. 4.7%, P = 0.09). CONCLUSIONS: Endovascular repair of iliac aneurysms with IBE is feasible and is associated with lower blood loss, LOS and ICU stay, and had lower RBC transfusion requirements. Cost analysis and long-term follow-up will be needed to define the value of this modality for iliac artery aneurysm repair.

Simulation of Endovascular Aortic Repair Using 3D Printed Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Model and Fluid Pump.

BACKGROUND: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) models can be manufactured with 3D printing technology. This study describes detailed methodology and validation of endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) simulation using 3D printed AAA model connected to hemodynamic pump. METHOD: The AAA model was printed with Objet500 Connex3 (Stratasys, Eden Prairie, MN) and connected to BDC PD-0500 fluid pump (BDC Laboratories, Wheat Ridge, CO). EVAR procedure metrics were benchmarked in two expert implanters and compared to 20 vascular surgical trainees with different levels of EVAR experience (< 20 or ≥ 20 cases). All simulations were performed using commercially available stent grafts, guidewires, catheters, fluoroscopic guidance and digital subtraction angiography. Studied outcomes included ability to complete the procedure independently, time to deploy aortic component, ability to cannulate contralateral gate and complete the repair, and total fluoroscopy and procedure times. RESULTS: A total of 22 EVAR simulation procedures were performed with mean procedure time of 37 ± 12 min. Experienced trainees had significantly lower total procedural time (32 ± 9 vs. 44 ± 6 min, P = 0.003) and fluoroscopic time (13 ± 5 vs. 23 ± 8 min, P = 0.005). All experienced trainees completed the procedure independently in < 45 min, compared to six (46%) of those with less EVAR experience (P = 0.016). Among less experienced trainees, only two (15%) completed the entire procedure independently (P < 0.001). Benchmark implanters performed significantly better than both trainee groups in nearly all EVAR metrics. CONCLUSION: EVAR simulation was feasible and simulated all procedural steps with high fidelity. This model may be applicable for assessment of technical competencies and standard endovascular skill acquisition within vascular surgery training curricula.

Outcomes of upper extremity access during fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair.

OBJECTIVE: Upper extremity (UE) access is frequently used during fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair (F-BEVAR) to facilitate catheterization of downgoing vessels. Limitations include risk of cerebral embolization and of UE arterial or peripheral nerve injury. The aim of this study was to assess outcomes of F-BEVAR using UE access. METHODS: We reviewed the clinical data of 334 consecutive patients (74% males; mean age 75 ± 8 years) treated by F-BEVAR for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms or pararenal aortic aneurysms between 2007 and 2016. Patients who underwent F-BEVAR with an UE approach for catheterization of the renal and/or mesenteric arteries were included in the study. End points were technical success, mortality, and a composite of access-related complications including cerebral embolization (stroke/transient ischemic attack), peripheral nerve injury, and axillary-brachial arterial complications requiring intervention. RESULTS: There were 243 patients (73%) treated by F-BEVAR with UE access, including 147 patients (60%) with thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms and 96 patients (40%) with pararenal aortic aneurysms. A total of 878 renal-mesenteric arteries were incorporated by fenestrations or branches with a mean of 3.6 ± 0.8 vessels per patient. All patients had surgical exposure of the brachial artery. The left side was selected in 228 (94%) and the right side in 15 (6%). The technical success of target vessel incorporation was achieved in 99% of patients (870 of 878). Arterial closure was performed using primary repair in 213 patients (88%) or bovine patch angioplasty in 29 (12%). Patch closure was required in 13% of patients (21 of 159) treated by 10- to 12F sheaths and 8% (7 of 83) of those who had 7- to 8F sheaths (P = .19). There were six deaths (2.5%) at 30 days or within the hospital stay, none owing to access-related complications. Major access-related complication occurred in eight patients (3%), with no difference between the 10- to 12F (6 of 159 [4%]) or 7- to 8F sheaths (2 of 83 [2%]; P = .45). Two patients (1%) had transient median nerve neuropraxia, which resolved within 1 year. One patient (0.5%) required surgical evacuation of an access site hematoma. There were no UE arterial pseudoaneurysms, occlusions, or distal embolizations. Five patients (2%) had strokes (three minor, two major), occurring more frequently with right side (2 of 15 [13%]) as compared with left-sided access (3 of 228 [1%]; P = .03). After a mean follow-up of 38 ± 15 months, there were no other access-related complications or reinterventions. CONCLUSIONS: UE arterial access with surgical exposure was associated with a low rate of complications in patients treated with F-BEVAR. Closure with patch angioplasty is frequently needed, but there were no arterial occlusions, pseudoaneurysms, or distal embolizations requiring secondary procedures.

Prospective assessment of health-related quality of life after endovascular repair of pararenal and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms using fenestrated-branched endografts.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate changes in health-related quality of life (QOL) in patients treated for pararenal aortic aneurysms (PAAs) and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) with fenestrated-branched endovascular aneurysm repair (F-BEVAR). METHODS: A total of 159 consecutive patients (70% male; mean age, 75 ± 7 years) were enrolled in a prospective, nonrandomized single-center study using manufactured F-BEVAR (2013-2016). All patients were observed for at least 12 months (mean follow-up time, 27 ± 12 months). Patients' health-related QOL was assessed using the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey questionnaire at baseline (N = 159), 6 to 8 weeks (n = 136), 6 months (n = 129), and 12 months (n = 123). Physical component scores (PCSs) and mental component scores (MCSs) were compared with historical results of patients enrolled in the endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) 1 trial who were treated by standard EVAR for simple infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms. RESULTS: There were 57 patients with PAAs and 102 patients with TAAAs (50 extent IV and 52 extent I-III TAAAs). There were no 30-day deaths, in-hospital deaths, conversions to open surgery, or aorta-related deaths. Survival was 96% at 1 year and 87% at 2 years. Major adverse events occurred in 18% of patients, and 1-year reintervention rate was 14%. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in 30-day outcomes. Patients treated for TAAAs had lower baseline scores compared with those treated for PAAs (P < .05). PCS declined significantly 6 to 8 weeks after F-BEVAR in both groups and returned to baseline values at 12 months in the PAA group but not in the TAAA group. Patients with TAAAs had significantly lower PCSs at 12 months compared with those with PAAs (P < .001). There was no decline in mean MCS. Major adverse events were associated with decline in PCS assessed at 6 to 8 weeks (P = .021) but not in the subsequent evaluations. Reinterventions had no effect on PCS or MCS. Overall, patients treated by F-BEVAR had similar changes in QOL measures as those who underwent standard EVAR in the EVAR 1 trial, except for lower PCS in TAAA patients at 12 months. CONCLUSIONS: Patients treated for TAAAs had lower scores at baseline in their physical aspect of health-related QOL. F-BEVAR was associated with significant decline in PCSs in both groups, which improved after 2 months and returned to baseline values at 12 months in patients with PAAs but not in those with TAAAs. Patients treated for PAAs had similar changes in QOL compared with those treated for infrarenal aortic aneurysms with standard EVAR.

Impact of aortic wall thrombus on late changes in renal function among patients treated by fenestrated-branched endografts.

OBJECTIVE: Renal function deterioration is an important determinant of mortality in patients treated for complex aortic aneurysms. We have previously determined that catheter and guidewire manipulation in diseased aortas during fenestrated-branched endovascular aneurysm repair (F-BEVAR) is associated with risk of renal function deterioration. The aim of this study was to describe the impact of atherothrombotic aortic wall thrombus (AWT) on renal function deterioration among patients treated by F-BEVAR for pararenal and extent IV thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. METHODS: Clinical data of 212 patients treated for complex aortic aneurysms with F-BEVAR were entered into a prospectively maintained database (2007-2015). AWT was evaluated by computed tomography angiography using volumetric measurements in nonaneurysmal aortic segments. AWT was classified as mild, moderate, or severe using objective assessment of the number of affected segments, thrombus type, thickness, area, and circumference. Acute kidney injury (AKI) was defined using Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss of kidney function, and End-stage renal disease (RIFLE) criteria, and renal function deterioration was defined by a decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >30% from baseline. Patient survival and renal outcomes were assessed at dismissal, at 6 to 8 weeks, at 6 months, and annually, including AKI, serum creatinine concentration, eGFR, chronic kidney disease stage, need for renal replacement therapy, and presence of kidney infarction. RESULTS: There were 169 male (80%) and 43 female (20%) patients with a mean age of 75 ± 7 years. Aneurysm extent was pararenal in 157 patients and extent IV thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm in 55 patients. A total of 700 renal-mesenteric arteries were incorporated (3.1 ± 1 vessels/patient). AWT was classified as mild in 98 patients (46%), moderate in 75 (35%), and severe in 39 (19%). At 30 days, 45 patients (21%) developed AKI. Decline in eGFR and kidney infarction were associated with higher AWT volume index and severe AWT classification (P < .05). There was no association of AWT with 30-day mortality, which was 0.5% for the entire cohort. Mean follow-up was 29 ± 23 months. Freedom from renal function deterioration was 73% ± 6% for mild, 81% ± 6% for moderate, and 66% ± 8% for severe AWT patients at 3 years (P = .012) and 46% ± 9% and 82% ± 4% for those with or without AKI after the initial procedure (P < .001). Overall, 41 patients (19%) had progression of chronic kidney disease stage, but none of the patients required renal replacement therapy. Survival was 73% ± 5% for mild, 72% ± 6% for moderate, and 69% ± 10% for severe AWT patients at 3 years (P = .67). CONCLUSIONS: AWT is a significant predictor of AKI and continued decline in renal function after the initial F-BEVAR procedure. Longer follow-up time is needed to determine the actual impact of AWT on survival.

Penetrating Aortic Ulcer and Intramural Hematoma.

Acute aortic syndromes include a variety of overlapping clinical and anatomic diseases. Penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU), intramural hematoma (IMH) and aortic dissection can occur as isolated processes or can be found in association. All these entities are potentially life threatening, so prompt diagnosis and treatment is of paramount importance. PAU and IMH lesions in the Stanford Type A distribution often require urgent open surgical repair. Lesions in the Stanford Type B distribution may be managed medically in the absence of symptoms or progression; however, a low threshold for endovascular or surgical treatment should be maintained. This review summarizes the clinical presentation, epidemiology, diagnosis, indications for treatment and endovascular strategies in patients with PAU or IMH.

Impact of onlay fusion and cone beam computed tomography on radiation exposure and technical assessment of fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of advanced imaging applications and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) on radiation exposure of the patient and operator and detection of technical problems during fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair (F-BEVAR) for treatment of pararenal aneurysms and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs). METHODS: We reviewed the clinical data of 386 consecutives patients (289 male; mean age, 75 ± 8 years) treated by F-BEVAR for 196 pararenal aneurysms and 190 TAAAs (mean, 3.4 ± 0.9 targeted vessels/patient) between 2007 and 2017. Radiation exposure (cumulative air kerma) was analyzed in three fixed imaging systems used between 2007 and 2011 (system 1), 2012 and 2016 (system 2), and 2016 and 2017 (system 3). Onlay fusion and CBCT were available with systems 2 and 3, whereas digital zoom with fusion overlay was used with system 3. Operator effective dose was measured per month using a radiation dosimeter badge. Computed tomography angiography and CBCT were analyzed for findings requiring immediate revision or secondary interventions. End points were patient radiation exposure; operator effective dose; procedure technical success; and 30-day rates of mortality, major adverse events, and secondary interventions. RESULTS: F-BEVAR was performed using system 1 in 98 patients, system 2 in 198 patients, and system 3 in 90 patients. Use of onlay fusion/CBCT was 0% with system 1, 42% with system 2, and 98% with system 3. Procedures performed with onlay fusion/CBCT had significantly (P < .05) higher technical success (99.4% vs 98.8%) and lower contrast material volume (155 ± 58 mL vs 172 ± 80 mL), fluoroscopy time (83 ± 34 minutes vs 94 ± 49 minutes), and cumulative air kerma (2561 ± 1920 mGy vs 3767 ± 2307 mGy). Despite higher case volume and increasing complexity during the experience, operator effective dose decreased to 9 ± 4 × 10-2 mSv/case with system 3 compared with 26 ± 3 × 10-2 mSv/case with system 1 and 20 ± 2 × 10-2 mSv/case with system 2 (P = .001). Among 219 patients who had no CBCT, 18 (8%) had computed tomography angiography findings that prompted secondary interventions before dismissal. Conversely, among 167 patients who had CBCT, 14 patients (8%) had intraoperative CBCT findings requiring immediate revision, with no additional secondary interventions. Patients treated with onlay fusion/CBCT had significantly (P < .05) lower mortality (4% vs 1%), major adverse events (43% vs 19%), and secondary interventions (10% vs 4%) at 30 days. CONCLUSIONS: Radiation exposure and operator effective dose significantly decreased with evolution of F-BEVAR experience and use of advanced imaging applications such as onlay fusion and CBCT. CBCT allowed immediate assessment and identified intraoperative technical problems, leading to immediate revision and avoiding early secondary interventions.

Outcomes of an iliac branch endoprosthesis using an "up-and-over" technique for endovascular repair of failed bifurcated grafts.

OBJECTIVE: Type IB endoleak after endovascular aneurysm repair may be treated by an iliac branch endoprosthesis (IBE) through brachial access for internal iliac artery (IIA) stenting. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes of the IBE using an "up-and-over" transfemoral technique in patients with prior aortic repair compared with the standard technique in patients with de novo iliac aneurysms. METHODS: We reviewed the clinical data of patients treated for aortoiliac aneurysms using Gore IBE (W. L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, Ariz) between 2014 and 2017. The up-and-over technique was indicated in patients with type IB endoleak or common iliac aneurysms after prior aortic repair with bifurcated endografts or surgical grafts. End points were technical success, mortality, major adverse events, IIA patency, freedom from IIA branch instability (composite end point of any IIA branch-related complication leading to aneurysm rupture, death, occlusion, component separation, or reintervention to maintain branch patency or to treat a branch-related separation or endoleak), and freedom from secondary interventions or new-onset buttock claudication. RESULTS: There were 53 patients (51 male; 74 ± 8 years old) treated by 62 IBEs (9 bilateral). Standard technique was used in 36 patients (43 IBEs) and up-and-over technique in 17 (19 IBEs). Three patients had contralateral IIA embolization. Total procedure time, contrast material volume, and radiation dose averaged 168 ± 98 minutes, 140 ± 50 mL, and 1096 ± 1009 mGy, with no difference between techniques. Technical success was achieved in 98% of patients. Eleven patients had extension of IIA bridging stent into the posterior branch (eight standard, three up-and-over). Four patients (8%) had major adverse events due to estimated blood loss >1000 mL in all patients. There was no 30-day mortality after a median follow-up of 7 months (interquartile range, 3-12 months). There were two IIA stent occlusions (all standard), three iliac-related type I endoleaks (one standard, two up-and-over), and four secondary interventions (three standard, one up-and-over). At 1 year, patients treated by standard or up-and-over technique had similar primary patency (94% ± 4% vs 100%; P = .38) and secondary patency (97% ± 3% vs 100%; P = .54) and freedom from IIA branch instability (90% ± 6% vs 93% ± 7%; P = .48), secondary intervention (84% ± 8% vs 90% ± 9%; P = .63), and new-onset buttock claudication (90% ± 6% vs 100%; P = .35). CONCLUSIONS: Endovascular repair using IBE was associated with high technical success, no mortality, and low rate of complications using either the standard technique for de novo aneurysms or an up-and-over technique for patients with failed bifurcated endografts or grafts. The up-and-over technique should be considered a suitable alternative to brachial access in patients who require distal extension using IBEs.

Evolution from physician-modified to company-manufactured fenestrated-branched endografts to treat pararenal and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to review treatment trends and outcomes of patients who underwent fenestrated-branched endovascular aneurysm repair (F-BEVAR) of pararenal aneurysms (PRAs) or thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) using physician-modified endografts (PMEGs) or company-manufactured devices (CMDs). METHODS: We reviewed the clinical data of 316 consecutive patients (242 male patients; mean age, 75 ± 8 years) who underwent F-BEVAR between 2007 and 2016. F-BEVAR was performed under two prospective investigational device exemption protocols since 2013. End points were mortality, major adverse events (MAEs), patient survival, reintervention, branch instability, aneurysm-related mortality, renal function deterioration, and target vessel patency. RESULTS: There were 145 patients (46%) treated by PMEGs (84 PRAs, 26 extent IV and 35 extent I-III TAAAs) and 171 patients (54%) who had CMDs (88 PRAs, 42 extent IV and 41 extent I-III TAAAs). Choice of endograft evolved from PMEGs in 131 patients (83%) treated in the first half of experience to CMDs in 144 patients (91%) treated in the second half of experience (P < .001). Patients treated by PMEGs had significantly (P < .05) larger aneurysms, more chronic pulmonary and kidney disease, and higher comorbidity severity scores. A total of 1081 renal-mesenteric arteries were targeted in both groups. Technical success was lower for PMEGs (98% vs 99.5%; P = .02). Thirty-day mortality was 5.5% for PMEGs (PRAs, 1.2%; extent IV 3.8% and extent I-III, 17.1%) and 0% for CMDs (P = .0018). Patients treated by PMEGs had significantly more (P < .001) MAEs (48% vs 23%) and longer hospital stay (9 ± 10 days vs 6 ± 6 days; P = .001). Mean follow-up was significantly longer for patients treated by PMEGs (38 ± 26 months vs 14 ± 12 months; P < .001). At 3 years, patient survival (68% ± 4% vs 67% ± 8%; P = .11), freedom from reintervention (68% ± 4% vs 68% ± 8%; P = .17), primary (94% ± 2% vs 92% ± 2%; P = .64) and secondary target vessel patency (98% ± 1% vs 98% ± 1%; P = .89), and freedom from renal function deterioration (75% ± 4% vs 65% ± 6%; P = .24) were similar for patients treated by PMEGs or CMDs, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Choice of F-BEVAR evolved from PMEGs to almost exclusively CMDs under physician-sponsored investigational device exemption protocols. PMEG patients had more comorbidities and larger aneurysms. CMDs were performed with higher technical success, no mortality, and fewer MAEs.

Severe infolding of fenestrated-branched endovascular stent graft.

Infolding of a fenestrated-branched stent graft is an infrequent complication due to excessive oversizing. We report the case of an 89-year-old man who underwent a four-vessel fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair for a pararenal aortic aneurysm. Computed tomography angiography revealed severe infolding across the mesenteric-renal vessels. The patient was treated by angioplasty and placement of Palmaz stent. Cone-beam computed tomography confirmed patent visceral vessels with resolution of the infolding. This case illustrates an uncommon complication that can be prevented by modifications in the stent design and by immediate assessment using intraoperative cone-beam computed tomography.

Multicenter study of retrograde open mesenteric artery stenting through laparotomy for treatment of acute and chronic mesenteric ischemia.

OBJECTIVE: Retrograde open mesenteric stenting (ROMS) through laparotomy was introduced as an alternative to surgical bypass in patients with acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the indications and outcomes of ROMS for treatment of AMI and chronic mesenteric ischemia. METHODS: We reviewed the clinical data and outcomes of all consecutive patients treated by ROMS in seven academic centers from 2001 to 2013. ROMS was performed through laparotomy with retrograde access into the target mesenteric artery and stent placement using a retrograde or antegrade approach. End points were early (<30 days) and late mortality, morbidity, patency rates, and freedom from symptom recurrence and reintervention. RESULTS: There were 54 patients, 13 male and 41 female, with a mean age of 72 ± 11 years. Indications for ROMS were AMI in 44 patients (81%) and subacute-on-chronic mesenteric ischemia with flush mesenteric occlusion in 10 patients (19%). A total of 56 target mesenteric vessels were stented, including 52 superior mesenteric arteries and 4 celiac axis lesions, with a mean treatment length of 42 ± 26 mm. Retrograde mesenteric access was used in all patients, but 16 patients also required a simultaneous antegrade brachial approach. The retrograde puncture was closed primarily in 34 patients and with patch angioplasty in 17 patients; 1 patient had manual compression. Bowel resection was needed in 29 patients (66%) with AMI because of perforation or gangrene. Technical success was achieved in all (98%) except one patient for whom ROMS failed, who was treated by bypass. Early mortality was 45% (20/44) for AMI and 10% (1/10) for subacute-on-chronic mesenteric ischemia (P = .04). Early morbidity was 73% for AMI and 50% for subacute-on-chronic mesenteric ischemia (P = .27). Patient survival for the entire cohort was 43% ± 9% at 2 years. Primary patency and secondary patency at 2 years were 76% ± 8% and 90% ± 8%, respectively. Freedom from symptom recurrence and freedom from reinterventions were 72% ± 8% and 74% ± 8% at the same interval. CONCLUSIONS: ROMS offers an alternative to bypass or percutaneous stenting in patients with AMI who require abdominal exploration and in those who have flush mesenteric occlusions and have failed to respond to or are considered unsuitable for stenting by a percutaneous approach. Despite high technical success, mortality remains elevated in patients with AMI. Patency rates and freedom from symptom recurrence and reinterventions are comparable to the results achieved with stenting using percutaneous technique.

Up-and-Over Technique for Implantation of Iliac Branch Devices After Prior Aortic Endograft Repair.

PURPOSE: To describe a modified up-and-over access technique for treatment of iliac artery aneurysms in patients with prior bifurcated stent-grafts for endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). TECHNIQUE: This technique uses a coaxial 12-F flexible sheath that is docked with a through-and-through wire into a 7-F sheath advanced from the contralateral femoral approach. This maneuver allows both sheaths to be moved as a unit while maintaining position of the apex of the system as it loops over the flow divider, avoiding damage to or displacing the extant endograft. Once the 12-F sheath is positioned in the iliac limb of the aortic stent-graft and secured in place with the through-and-through wire, the repair is extended into the internal iliac artery using a bridging stent-graft or covered stent introduced via a coaxial sheath. CONCLUSION: The up-and-over technique with a flexible 12-F sheath mated with a 7-F sheath from the opposite side allows bilateral femoral access to be used for iliac branch device placement after prior aortic endograft procedures that create a higher, acutely angled bifurcation. Use of a through-and-through wire and a coaxial sheath for stent delivery creates a very stable platform for intervention.

Planning endovascular aortic repair with standard and fenestrated-branched endografts.

Endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) has been accepted as the first treatment option in most patients with infrarenal and thoracic aortic aneurysms. Advantages include its minimal invasive approach and lower risk of mortality and morbidity compared to open surgical repair. In patients with complex aneurysms involving side branches, novel techniques of parallel, fenestrated and branched endografts have expanded the indications of EVAR. Preoperative planning is of paramount importance to achieve technical success and to minimize risks of these procedures. In most centers, anatomical measurements are based on helical computed tomography angiography and/or magnetic resonance angiography. This article summarizes the most important aspects on planning standard and complex EVAR to treat aortic aneurysms and dissections.

Trombo móvel na carótida interna: planejamento cirúrgico definido pela ultrassonografia vascular / Floating thrombus in the internal carotid artery: surgical planning defined by vascular ultrasound / Trombo Móvil en la Carótida Interna: Planeamiento Quirúrgico Definido por la Ultrasonografía Vascular

Os principais objetivos para o relato deste caso foram: Enfatizar a importância do diagnóstico ultrassonográfico de um trombo móvel na carótida interna, responsável pelo acidente vascular de um paciente atendido no setor de emergência e descrever uma nova técnica de imagem futurística, denominada Caracterização Tecidual Ultrassonográfica (CATUS). A CATUS tem a finalidade de avaliar e estimar a composição do trombo, a sua aderência na parede arterial e o risco de embolização relacionado em potencial com a gravidade de sintomas cerebrovasculares. A demonstração ultrassonográfica do trombo móvel foi o fator determinante para o planejamento cirúrgico e a endarterectomia confirmou a presença do material trombótico.

The objectives of this case report were: to emphasize the importance of the ultrasonographic diagnosis of a floating thrombus in the internal carotid artery, linked to a stroke on a pacient seen in the emergency room, and to describe a new visionary imaging technique, ultrasonographic tissue characterization (USTC), designed toevaluate and estimate the thrombus composition, it’s adherence to the vascular walland embolization risk. Ultrasonographic demonstration of a embolus was determinant factor for surgical planning. Presence of the thombus was confirmed during carotidendarterectomy.

Los principales objetivos para el relato de este caso fueron: Enfatizar la importancia del diagnóstico ultrasonográfico de un trombo móvil en la carótida interna, responsable por el accidente vascular de un paciente atendido en el sector de emergencia y describir una nueva técnica de imagen futurista, denominada Caracterización del Tejido Ultrasonográfica (CATUS). La CATUS tiene la finalidad de evaluar y calcular la composición del trombo, su adherencia en la pared arterial y el riesgo de embolización relacionado en potencia con la gravedad de síntomas cerebrovasculares. La demostración ultrasonográfica del trombo móvil fue el factor determinante para la planificación quirúrgica y la endarterectomía confirmó la presencia del material trombótico.

Subclavian vein angioplasty during arteriovenous fistula surgery: case report and literature review / Angioplastia de veia subclávia no intraoperatório de fístula arteriovenosa: relato de caso e revisão de literatura

Patients with chronic kidney disease stage 5 are generally treated by hemodialysis, preferentially performed via an arteriovenous fistula (AVF). We report the case of a 58-year-old male patient with diabetes mellitus, hypertension and end-stage renal disease in whom hemodialysis was conducted via a long-term catheter. His medical record described numerous central venous cannulations and several AVF creations. The patient developed subclinical subclavian stenosis that required creation of a new vascular access route. The purpose of this case report is to describe treatment of subclavian vein stenosis during AVF creation.

Pacientes portadores de Insuficiência Renal Crônica (IRC) estágio V são geralmente tratados por hemodiálise (HD), preferencialmente por fístula arteriovenosa (FAV). Descrevemos um relato de caso de um paciente de 58 anos, masculino, portador de diabetes mellitus, hipertensão arterial sistêmica e IRC terminal. Seus antecedentes demonstram múltiplos acessos para implante de cateter de hemodiálise, assim como tentativas prévias de realização de FAV. Esse paciente desenvolveu estenose subclínica da veia subclávia, limitando a HD pelo membro superior. O propósito deste relato foi descrever o tratamento endovascular de estenose de veia subclávia, concomitante à realização de uma nova FAV.

Tratamento endovascular das obstruções venosas crônicas do segmento iliocaval / Endovascular treatment of chronic obstructions of the iliocaval segment

A insuficiência venosa crônica é um grave problema de saúde pública no mundo, consumindo grandes quantias de recursos e causando grande prejuízo na qualidade de vida dos pacientes portadores de suas formas mais avançadas. A cirurgia para o tratamento de obstruções no sistema venoso profundo não foi incorporada à prática da maioria dos cirurgiões vasculares, ficando restrita a poucos centros em alguns países. Com o advento da cirurgia endovascular, a possibilidade de tratar alguns tipos de lesões obstrutivas por uma técnica minimamente invasiva e com resultados promissores renova o interesse da comunidade vascular pelas formas mais complexas de doença venosa.

Chronic venous insufficiency is an important public health issue worldwide, that consumes significant amounts of resources and impairs the quality of life of patients who suffer from its more severe clinical types. Surgery for the treatment of deep venous system obstruction has not been incorporated to the practice of most vascular surgeons, being restricted to a few medical centers in some countries. With the advent of endovascular surgical techniques, the possibility of treating some obstructive lesions with a minimally invasive technique that has promising results has renewed the interest of the vascular community for the treatment of more complex forms of vascular disease.

Outcome analysis of infrapopliteal percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and bypass graft surgery with nonreversed saphenous vein for individuals with critical limb ischemia.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the results of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) and bypass graft surgery (BGS) for the treatment of infrapopliteal lesions in individuals presenting with critical limb ischemia (CLI). METHOD: A total of 48 infrapopliteal PTAs and 50 infrapopliteal BGS were compared retrospectively. All grafts used nonreversed saphenous vein in a single length as a substitute. RESULTS: Secondary patency and limb salvage rates in 24 months for the surgical group were 64.7% and 73.2%, respectively. For PTA group, these values were 63.7% and 68.2%, without differences between groups (log rank; P = .45 and .39, respectively). Bypass graft surgery presented better results of secondary patency (72.9% vs 57.1%) and limb salvage (83.5% vs 53.6%) than PTA for patients with Transatlantic Inter-Society Consensus (TASC) D lesions (P = .04 and P = .01, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Both BGS and PTA provided similar results of patency and limb salvage for individuals with infrapopliteal atherosclerotic disease presenting with CLI. Bypass graft surgery had better results than PTA when TASC D lesions were present.