Late Radiological and Clinical Outcomes of Traumatic Thoracic Aortic Injury Managed with Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair

Blunt Traumatic Aortic Injury Treated with Endovascular Aortic Repair: Does Age Influence the Outcome?

Background: Blunt traumatic aortic injury (BTAI) is the second most common cause of death following blunt trauma, and it can affect people of all ages. The aim of this study was to evaluate age-related differences in outcomes among patients undergoing thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for BTAI. Methods: All patients treated with TEVAR for BTAI at a tertiary care center in Europe between 2005 and 2023 were included in this study. All clinical and imaging data were collected and analyzed retrospectively. Results: A total of 70 patients with a median age of 43 years were included, and 89% were male. Older patients had significantly higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification scores (p < 0.001) compared to younger patients. All age groups (<18, 18-40, 41-65, and >65) exhibited low to borderline low initial hemoglobin levels with a further decline over time (p = 0.063, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.018, respectively). Age groups were comparable regarding injury mechanism, Injury Severity Score (ISS), concomitant injuries and postoperative complications. The age-independent ISS showed a moderate to strong correlation to the length of intensive care unit stay (r = 0.594, p < 0.001). Total in-hospital mortality was 6% and none was from aortic-related complications. There was a generally high rate of loss of follow-up (59%). Conclusions: Although older patients presented worse ASA scores in comparison to younger patients, no significant differences regarding postoperative morbidity/mortality were noted. These findings imply that patient age and preinjury physical status might not substantially influence outcomes when treating BTAI with TEVAR.

Long-Term Survival and Reintervention Following Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair in Blunt Traumatic Thoracic Aortic Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Blunt thoracic aortic injury (BTAI) represents one of the most devastating scenarios of vascular trauma. Different management strategies are available with varying clinical outcomes. However, thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has become the first-line option for most BTAI patients, mainly owing to its minimally invasive nature, yielding improved immediate results. This meta-analysis aims to investigate mortality, long-term survival, and reintervention following TEVAR in BTAI.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A systematic review conducted a comprehensive literature search on multiple electronic databases using strict search terms. Twenty-seven studies met the set inclusion/exclusion criteria. A proportional meta-analysis of extracted data was conducted using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Software, v.4.

RESULTS

1498 BTAI patients who underwent TEVAR were included. Using the SVS grading system, 2.6% of the population had Grade 1 injuries, 13.6% Grade 2, 62.2% Grade 3, 19.6% Grade 4, and 1.9% unspecific. All-cause mortality did not exceed 20% in all studies except one outlier with a 37% mortality rate. Using the random effects model, the pooled estimate of overall mortality was 12% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.35-8.55%; I2 = 70.6%). This was 91% (95% CI, 88.6-93.2; I2 = 30.2%) at 6 months, 90.1% (95% CI, 86.7-92.3; I2 = 53.6%) at 1 year, 89.2% (95% CI, 85.2-91.8; I2 = 62.3%) at 2 years, and 88.1% (95% CI, 83.3-90.9; I2 = 69.6%) at 5 years. Moreover, the pooled estimate of reintervention was 6.4% (95% CI, 0.1-0.49%; I2 = 81.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the high morbidity and mortality associated with BTAI, TEVAR has proven to be a safe and effective management strategy with favorable long-term survival and minimal need for reintervention. Nevertheless, diagnosis of BTAI requires a high index of suspicion with appropriate grading and prompt transfer to trauma centers with appropriate TEVAR facilities.

The Value of Aortic Volume and Intraluminal Thrombus Quantification for Predicting Aortic Events after Endovascular Thoracic Aneurysm Repair

Objectives: To assess the ability of the aortic aneurysm volume (AAV), aneurysmal lumen volume (ALV), and aneurysmal thrombus volume (ATV) to predict the need for aortic reintervention when using the maximal aortic diameter as a reference. Methods: This monocentric retrospective study included 31 consecutive patients who underwent successful thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) to treat an atheromatous thoracic aortic aneurysm. All patients underwent clinical and computed tomography angiography (CTA) for 3 years after TEVAR. The patients were categorized into group 0 if no aortic reintervention was required during the follow-up period and categorized into group 1 if they experienced a type I or III endoleak or aneurysm diameter increase requiring intervention. The maximum aneurysm sac diameter and the AAV, ALV, and ATV were calculated using CTA images obtained preoperatively (T0) and at 6-12 months (T1), 24 months (T2), and 36 months (T3) postoperatively, and their changes over time were analyzed. Correlations between diameter and changes in AAV, ALV, and ATV were assessed, and the association between diameter and volume changes and reintervetion was examined. The cutoff values for predicting the need for reintervention was determined using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The accuracy of volume change versus diameter change for predicting the need for reintervention was analyzed. Results: There were no significant differences in terms of the mean aneurysm diameter or AAV, ALV or ATV between the groups at preoperative CTA or after one year of follow-up imaging. The mean ATV was higher in group 1 than in group 0 at 2 years (187.6 ± 86.3 mL vs. 114.7 ± 64.7 mL; p = 0.057) and after 3 years (195.0 ± 86.7 mL vs. 82.1 ± 39.9 mL; p = 0.013). The maximal diameter was greater in group 1 than in group 0 at 3 years (67.3 ± 9.5 mm vs. 55.3 ± 12.6 mm; p = 0.044). The rate of AAV change between T0 and T1 was significantly higher in group 1 (7 ± 4.5%) than in group 0 (-6 ± 6.8%; p < 0.001). The rate of ATV change between T1-T3 was significantly higher in group 1 than in group 0 (34 ± 40.9% vs. -13 ± 14.4% (p = 0.041)); similar results were observed for the rate of ATV change between T2 and T3 (27 ± 50.1% for group 1 vs. -8 ± 49.5% in group 0 (p < 0.001)). According to our multivariate analysis, the annual growth rate for AAV between T0 and T1 was the only independent factor that was significantly associated with aortic reintervention (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.84, OR = 1.57, p = 0.025; optimal cutoff +0.4%). An increase in the annual growth rate of the ATV between T0 and T3 was independently associated with the need for aortic reintervention (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.90, OR = 1.11, p = 0.0347; optimal cutoff +10.1%). Conclusions: Aortic volume analysis can predict the need for aortic reintervention more accurately and earlier than maximal aortic diameter.

A 12-year experience in the management of blunt thoracic aortic injury in Otautahi Christchurch

BACKGROUND

Blunt thoracic aortic injury (BTAI) is associated with a high mortality and is the second most common cause of death from trauma. The approach to major trauma, imaging technology and advancement in endovascular therapy have revolutionised the management of BTAI. Endovascular therapy has now become the gold standard technique replacing surgery with its high mortality and morbidity in unstable patients. We aim to assess the outcomes following management of BTAI.

METHOD

This is a retrospective study of all patients with BTAI between 1 January 2010 and 1 January 2022. Data were obtained from electronic health records. The grading of BTAI severity was done based on the Society of Vascular Surgery (SVS) Criteria.

RESULTS

Fifty patients were included in the study analysis. The most common cause of BTAI was due to high-speed motor vehicle accidents (MVA) (36 patients, 72%). Grade 1 and grade 3 BTAI injuries were mostly encountered in 40% and 30% of the study cohort, respectively. Twenty-three patients (46%) underwent thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). There was no secondary aortic re-intervention, conversion to open surgery or aortic-related deaths at 30 days or at most recent follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Management of BTAI in our centre compares well with currently published studies. Long-term studies are warranted to guide clinicians in areas of controversy in BTAI management.

Blunt Thoracic Aortic Injury and Contemporary Management Strategy

Thoracic aortic injury (TAI) is a leading cause of death in blunt chest trauma. Motor vehicle collisions are the commonest cause, and most patients die before receiving medical attention. Survivors who make it to the hospital also typically have other debilitating injuries with high morbidity. It is imperative to understand the nature of these injuries and implement current management strategies to improve patient outcomes. A literature review on contemporary management strategies on blunt thoracic aortic injuries was performed to evaluate the available evidence using online databases (PubMed and Google Scholar). We found that there has been an improved survival owing to the current advancement in diagnostic modalities, the use of contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography, and contemporary management techniques with an endovascular approach. However, careful assessment of patients and a multidisciplinary effort are necessary to establish an accurate diagnosis. Minimal aortic injuries (intimal tear and aortic hematoma) can be managed medically with careful monitoring of disease progression with imaging. Endovascular approaches and delayed intervention are key strategies for optimal management of high-grade TAI.

Blunt Thoracic Aortic Injury and Acute Trauma: The Effect on Aortic Diameter and the Consequences for Stent-graft Sizing

BACKGROUND

Blunt thoracic aortic injury (BTAI) is associated with a high mortality and large trauma burden. Trauma and resuscitation after injury affect cardiovascular status, which may in turn affect aortic diameter. Measurement of aortic diameter is necessary to guide stent-graft sizing as part of BTAI management. Inaccurate measurement may lead to stent-graft complications. This pilot study aimed to assess the effect of acute major trauma on stent-graft sizing and stent-graft complications, in the context of BTAI and to assess whether any effect could be predicted.

METHODS

Patients who were admitted to a UK major trauma center between January 2007 and December 2017, and were diagnosed with BTAI, were identified. The thoracic aortic diameter was measured at six points on initial and surveillance computed tomography imaging. Data on patient demographics, admission heart rate, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and serum lactate were gathered.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients were identified. Twenty met inclusion criteria. Of these, 12 were managed operatively and eight nonoperatively. The mean age was 40, the mean injury severity score was 43, and 85% were male. A mean increase in diameter between initial trauma scan and surveillance scan was noted throughout the thoracic aorta (P < 0.05). Stent-graft oversizing relative to aortic diameter changed significantly from initial trauma imaging to surveillance imaging (P < 0.05). Admission heart rate, MAP, and serum lactate were not predictive of the percentage change in aortic diameter. There were no complications at surveillance imaging (mean 45 days) or during medium term follow-up (mean 532 days).

CONCLUSIONS

Aortic diameter is affected by BTAI, acute major trauma, and resuscitation in a significant and variable manner. Measurements of the aorta in a patient with BTAI in the acute trauma setting should be viewed with uncertainty. A lack of complications in the short term is suggestive of a wide tolerance range regarding stent-graft sizing, but long-term results are unknown.

Long-term Outcomes of Endovascular and Open Repair for Traumatic Thoracic Aortic Injury

IMPORTANCE

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has been adopted rapidly for treating traumatic thoracic aortic injury (TAI). The long-term durability and efficacy remain unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the long-term outcomes of thoracic endovascular aortic repair and those of open repair (OR) for traumatic TAI.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS

This nationwide cohort study used Taiwan's National Health Insurance Database to evaluate patients with traumatic TAI between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2013. This single-payer National Health Insurance program covered more than 99.9% of the Taiwanese population. Those who received OR or TEVAR for TAI by propensity score matching were included. Data analysis was conducted in October 2017.

EXPOSURES

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair vs open repair.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

In-hospital outcomes, all-cause mortality, aorta reintervention, and stroke during follow-up.

RESULTS

Of the 287 patients (mean [SD] age, 41.66 [17.98] years; 80.5% male) who received OR or TEVAR for TAI, propensity score matching yielded 100 patients each in the OR and TEVAR groups. After propensity score matching, in-hospital mortality risk was significantly lower in the TEVAR group (9 [9.0%]) than in the OR group (27 [27.0%]; TEVAR vs open repair: odds ratio, 0.27; 95% CI, 0.12-0.60). With a mean (SD) follow-up of 2.80 (2.63) years, the proportion of survivors was 71.9% at 1 year, 70.8% at 2 years, 68.2% at 3 years, and 65.1% at 5 years in the OR group vs 88.9% at 1 year, 88.9% at 2 years, 88.9% at 3 years, and 88.9% at 5 years in the TEVAR group (log-rank test, P < .001). The TEVAR group had only 2 events (2%) of late reintervention and 1 event (1%) of late cerebrovascular accident. The proportion of freedom from reintervention was 100% at 1 year, 100% at 2 years, 100% at 3 years, and 100% at 5 years in the OR group vs 97.4% at 1 year, 97.4% at 2 years, 97.4% at 3 years, and 97.4% at 5 years in the TEVAR group (log-rank test, P = .18).

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

Compared with OR, TEVAR was associated with better long-term outcomes, mainly owing to lower mortality during the perioperative period. In addition, TEVAR was associated with a similar rate of survival and reintervention after hospital discharge.

The Evaluation of Aortic Diameter Changes During Long-Term Follow-Up After Endovascular Treatment of Acute Blunt Traumatic Thoracic Aortic Injuries

Purpose:

To evaluate the variations in aortic diameters and long-term results in patients who underwent thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for acute blunt traumatic thoracic aortic injuries (BTTAIs).

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated 23 patients with a mean age of 39 years (range: 17-74 years) who underwent TEVAR for BTTAI between October 2000 and November 2014. All of the patients underwent computed tomography angiography (CTA) before hospital discharge as a baseline imaging for the subsequent follow-up examinations. The technical success, overall survival, and complications were evaluated. Furthermore, the aortic diameters outside of the stent-graft (1 cm proximal and 1 cm distal to the stent-graft) and the aortic diameters within the stent-graft (2 cm distal to the proximal end and 2 cm proximal to the distal end) were assessed. The diameters at baseline on CTA were compared with those of the latest available follow-up examination.

Results:

Technical success was 100% with a mean follow-up of 65.4 months (range: 12-171 months). No death was registered, and 2 (8.7%) of 23 endograft-related complications (1 stent-graft distal infolding and 1 endoleak 2 and 4 months after the procedure, respectively) were observed. An increase in aortic diameter either proximal or distal to the stent-graft (mean value 0.7 and 0.5 mm, respectively) or within the stent-graft (mean value of 0.5 mm for both proximal and distal diameters) was registered (mean follow-up at 65.4 months, range: 12-171 months).

Conclusion:

Aortic dilatation following TEVAR for BTTAI is minimal during long-term follow-up. Endovascular treatment represents a durable and safe option in acute BTTAIs.