Open repair of juxtarenal aortic aneurysms (JAA) remains a safe option in the era of fenestrated endografts

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Fenestrated and Chimney/Snorkel Techniques for Endovascular Repair of Juxtarenal Aortic Aneurysms

OBJECTIVES

Comparative effectiveness of fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR) and chimney graft endovascular aneurysm repair (ChEVAR) for juxtarenal aortic aneurysms (JAAs) remains unclear. Our objective was to identify and analyze the current body of evidence comparing the effectiveness of both techniques for JAA.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the effectiveness of FEVAR and ChEVAR for JAA repair. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Register for Controlled Trials from January 1, 1990, for randomized and non-randomized studies assessing outcomes of FEVAR and ChEVAR for JAA repair. Screening, data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessments, Development, and Evaluations) certainty of evidence were performed in duplicate. Data were pooled statistically where possible.

RESULTS

Nine retrospective cohort studies comparing the use of FEVAR and ChEVAR for juxtarenal aneurysm were included for meta-analysis. The FEVAR and ChEVAR arms of the meta-analysis consisted of 726 participants and 518 participants, respectively. There were 598 (86.8%) and 332 (81.6%) men in each arm. The mean diameter was larger in the ChEVAR arm (59 mm vs 52.5 mm). Both techniques had similar rates of postoperative 30-day mortality, 3.38% (8/237) versus 3.52% (8/227), acute kidney injury, 16.76% (31/185) versus 17.31% (18/104), and major adverse cardiac events, 7.30% (46/630) versus 6.60% (22/333). The meta-analysis supported the use of FEVAR for most outcomes, with significant advantage for technical success (odds ratio [OR]: 3.24, 95% CI: 1.24-8.42) and avoidance of type 1 endoleak (OR: 5.76, 95% CI: 1.94-17.08), but a disadvantage for spinal cord ischemia (OR: 10.21, 95% CI: 1.21-86.11), which had a very low number of events. The quality of evidence was "moderate" for most outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Both endovascular techniques had good safety profiles. The evidence does not support superiority of either FEVAR or ChEVAR for JAA.

CLINICAL IMPACT

While lack of equipoise has hampered the design of randomised trials of open versus endovascular repair of juxtarenal aortic aneurysms, concern about the durability of endovascular repair highlights the need for stronger evidence of the comparative efficacy of endovascular techniques. This review performed meta-analysis and evidence appraisal of recent data from large observational studies comparing fenestrated and chimney techniques, using a comprehensive outcome set. Superiority of either intervention could not be established due to differences in participants' baseline risk in each study arm. However, data suggests that both techniques are safe and suitable for use when indicated.

Brazilian Society for Angiology and Vascular Surgery guidelines on abdominal aortic aneurysm

The Brazilian Society of Angiology and Vascular Surgery, through the Guidelines Project, presents new Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Guidelines, on the subject of care for abdominal aortic aneurysm patients. Its development prioritized descriptive guidelines, using the EMBASE, LILACS, and PubMed databases. References include randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and cohort studies. Quality of evidence was evaluated by a pair of coordinators, aided by the RoB 2 Cochrane tool and the Newcastle Ottawa Scale forms. The subjects include juxtarenal aneurysms, infected aneurysms, and new therapeutic techniques, especially endovascular procedures. The current version of the guidelines include important recommendations for the primary topics involving diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for abdominal aortic aneurysm patients, providing an objective guide for medical practice, based on scientific evidence and widely available throughout Brazil.

Transrenal Endovascular Aneurysm Repair-A Novel Approach for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms with Difficult Neck Anatomy

BACKGROUND

The endovascular approach to treating ruptured or symptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) with difficult neck anatomy still poses a major challenge. This study proposes and evaluates the outcomes of a novel technique, Transrenal Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (Tr-EVAR) which utilizes the top ring 'valley' and 'peak' configuration of the Anaconda stent graft to achieve proximal seal in AAAs with an unfavourable neck.

METHODS

All patients treated with Tr-EVAR over a period of 10 years were identified retrospectively. Demographic, clinical and outcome data were collected, and survival analysis was performed. The time-to-event was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves for complication-free survival, reintervention-free survival, and overall survival.

RESULTS

During the study period, 36 patients ruptured, symptomatic or large AAAs having unfavorable necks and not fit for open repair underwent Tr-EVAR. Two patients died in the first 30 days postprocedure (5.6%). The overall survival at 1 year, 3 years and 5 years were 86%, 72% and 54% respectively with a mean overall survival of 74.0 months (SE 7.8, 95% confidence interval 58.7-89.3) which was comparable to chimney endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). The complication-free survival and reintervention-free survival at 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years were 75%, 61%, 42%, 78%, 64%, and 45%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Tr-EVAR can be considered as an off-the-shelf solution for urgent cases not fit for open repair with unfavourable neck features for standard EVAR. Careful patient selection and planning have generated acceptable immediate, midterm and long-term results comparable to those presented by chimney EVAR in the literature.

Anatomical feasibility of the current endovascular solutions for Juxtarenal aortic abdominal aneurysm repair

PURPOSE

Endovascular repair of juxta-renal aneurysms (JAAAs) can be achieved by fenestrated endografts (FEVAR), parallel-grafts (CHEVAR) and standard abdominal endografts + endoanchors (ESAR). Aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of their anatomical feasibility in JAAAs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients submitted to JAAAs treatment from 2006 to 2019 were retrospectively analyzed, irrelevant of the procedure performed. Juxta-renal aneurysm was defined according with the current ESVS clinical practice guidelines. Preoperative computed tomography angiographies were analyzed to evaluate the anatomical feasibility of: FEVAR (Cook Zenith-platform; CE-marked or custom-made device), CHEVAR (Medtronic Endurant + Atrium Advanta - CE marked combination) and ESAR (Medtronic Endurant + Helifix - CE marked combination) according with the manufactures' instruction for use. The anatomical feasibility of these three endovascular solutions was assessed according with the proximal neck, target visceral vessels (TVVS) and iliac access characteristics.

RESULTS

Ninety-nine cases were considered. There were no cases of frank aortic rupture and in all patients at least one arterial access from above was available. Fenestrated endograft, CHEVAR, and ESAR were anatomically feasible in 93 (94%), 37 (37%), and 27 (27%) cases, respectively (p <. 001). Fenestrated endograft requires design with <3, three and >3 fenestrations in 29 (31%), 33 (36%), and 31 (33%) cases, respectively. Parallel graft technique have required 1 or 2 parallel graft configurations in 12 (12%) and 25 (25%) cases, respectively. Among the 14 cases with aneurysm diameter >70 mm, the anatomical feasibility of FEVAR, CHEVAR, and ESAR was 13(93%), 4(29%), and 4 (29%) cases, respectively (p < .001).

CONCLUSION

Fenestrated endograft is more frequently applicable than CHEVAR and ESAR as endovascular treatment of JAAAs. Since this difference is valid also in aneurysms with diameter >70 mm, the issue of a rapid availability is of paramount importance. The 6% of cases have not any endovascular solution and requires open surgery.

Bilateral renal artery stenosis impacts postoperative complications after major vascular surgery

Background

Incidental atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis (RAS) is common in patients undergoing vascular surgery and has been shown to be associated with postoperative AKI among patients undergoing major non-vascular surgeries. We hypothesized that patients with RAS undergoing major vascular procedures would have a higher incidence of AKI and postoperative complications than those without RAS.

Methods

A single-center retrospective cohort study of 200 patients who underwent elective open aortic or visceral bypass surgery (100 with postoperative AKI; 100 without AKI) were identified. RAS was then evaluated by review of pre-surgery CTAs with readers blinded to AKI status. RAS was defined as ≥50 % stenosis. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression was used to assess association of unilateral and bilateral RAS with postoperative outcomes.

Results

17.4 % (n = 28) of patients had unilateral RAS while 6.2 % (n = 10) of patients had bilateral RAS. Patients with bilateral RAS had similar preadmission creatinine and GFR as compared to unilateral RAS or no RAS. 100 % (n = 10) of patients with bilateral RAS had postoperative AKI compared with 45 % (n = 68) of patients with unilateral or no RAS (p < 0.05). In adjusted logistic regression models, bilateral RAS predicted severe AKI (OR 5.82; CI 1.33, 25.53; p = 0.02), in-hospital mortality (OR 5.71; CI 1.03, 31.53; p = 0.05), 30-day mortality (OR 10.56; CI 2.03, 54.05; p = 0.005) and 90-day mortality (OR 6.88; CI 1.40, 33.87; p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Bilateral RAS is associated with increased incidence of AKI as well as in-hospital, 30-day, and 90-day mortality suggesting it is a marker of poor outcomes and should be considered in preoperative risk stratification.

Comparative Effectiveness of Treatment Modalities for Complex Aortic Aneurysms: A Network Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

BACKGROUND

To conduct a network meta-analysis comparing multiple treatments for complex aortic aneurysms (CAAs).

METHODS

Medical databases were searched on November 11, 2022. Twenty-five studies (5,149 patients) and four treatments (open surgery [OS], chimney/snorkel endovascular aneurysm repair [CEVAR], fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair [FEVAR], and branched endovascular aneurysm repair) were selected. Outcomes were branch vessel patency, mortality, and reintervention at short- and long-term followup, and perioperative complications.

RESULTS

Regarding branch vessel patency, OS was the most effective treatment and had higher 24-month branch vessel patency rates than CEVAR (odds ratio [OR], 10.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.08-55.79). FEVAR (OR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.27-1.00) and OS (OR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.17-0.93) were better than CEVAR regarding 30-day mortality and 24-month mortality, respectively. Regarding 24-month reintervention, OS was better than CEVAR (OR, 3.07; 95% CI, 1.15-8.18) and FEVAR (OR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.08-5.73). Regarding perioperative complications, FEVAR had lower acute renal failure rates than OS (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.27-0.66) and CEVAR (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.25-0.92) and lower myocardial infarction rates than OS (OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.25-0.97) and was the most effective treatment in preventing acute renal failure, myocardial infarction, bowel ischemia, and stroke, while OS was the most effective treatment in preventing spinal cord ischemia.

CONCLUSIONS

OS might have advantages regarding branch vessel patency, 24-month mortality, and reintervention and is similar to FEVAR regarding 30-day mortality. Regarding perioperative complications, FEVAR might confer advantages in preventing acute renal failure, myocardial infarction, bowel ischemia, and stroke, and OS in preventing spinal cord ischemia.

Retroperitoneal Compared to Transperitoneal Approach for Open Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair Is Associated with Reduced Systemic Inflammation and Postoperative Morbidity

BACKGROUND

 In the United Kingdom, the most common surgical approach for repair of open abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) is transperitoneal (TP). However, retroperitoneal (RP) approach is favored in those with more complex vascular anatomy often requiring a cross-clamp on the aorta superior to the renal arteries. This study compared these approaches in patients matched on all major demographic, comorbid, anatomic, and physiological variables.

METHODS

 Fifty-seven patients (TP: n = 24; RP: n = 33) unsuitable for endovascular aneurysm repair underwent preoperative cardiopulmonary exercise testing prior to open AAA repair. The surgical approach undertaken was dictated by individual surgeon preference. Postoperative mortality, complications, and length of hospital stay (LoS) were recorded. Patients were further stratified according to infrarenal (IR) or suprarenal/supraceliac (SR/SC) surgical clamping. Systemic inflammation (C-reactive protein) and renal function (serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate) were recorded.

RESULTS

 Twenty-three (96%) of TP patients only required an IR clamp compared with 12 (36%) in the RP group. Postoperative systemic inflammation was lower in RP patients (p = 0.002 vs. TP) and fewer reported pulmonary/gastrointestinal complications whereas renal impairment was more marked in those receiving SR/SC clamps (p < 0.001 vs. IR clamp). RP patients were defined by lower LoS (p = 0.001), while mid-/long-term mortality was low/comparable with TP, resulting in considerable cost savings.

CONCLUSION

 Despite the demands of more complicated vascular anatomy, the clinical and economic benefits highlighted by these findings justify the more routine adoption of the RP approach for complex AAA repair.

Open Retroperitoneal Repair for Complex Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Background  Open surgical repair (OSR) of complex abdominal aortic aneurysms (CAAAs) can be challenging. We frequently utilize the retroperitoneal (RP) approach for such cases. We audited our outcomes with the aim of establishing the utility and safety of this approach.

Methods  Retrospective analysis was performed of all patients undergoing OSR of an unruptured CAAA via a RP approach in our center over a 7-year period. Data on repairs via a transperitoneal (TP) approach were collected to provide context. Demographic, operative, radiological, and biochemical data were collected. The primary outcome measure was 30-day/inpatient mortality. Secondary outcomes included the need for reoperation, incidence of postoperative chest infection, acute kidney injury (AKI) and length of stay (LOS). All patients received aortic clamping above at least one main renal artery.

Results  One hundred and three patients underwent OSR of an unruptured CAAA; 55 via a RP approach, 48 TP. The RP group demonstrated a more advanced pattern of disease with a larger median maximum diameter (65 vs. 61 mm, p = 0.013) and a more proximal extent. Consequently, the rate of supravisceral clamping was higher in RP repair (66 vs. 15%, p  < 0.001). Despite this there were no differences in the observed early mortality (9.1 vs. 10%, NS); incidence of reoperation (10.9 vs. 12.5%, NS), chest infection (32.7 vs. 25%, NS), and AKI (52.7 vs. 45.8%, NS); or median LOS (10 vs. 12 days, NS) following RP and TP repair.

Conclusion  OSR of CAAAs carries significant 30-day mortality. In patients unsuitable for fenestrated endovascular aortic repair or those desiring a durable long-term solution, OSR can be performed through the RP or TP approach. This study has demonstrated that in our unit RP repair facilitates treatment of more advanced AAA utilizing complex proximal clamp zones with similar perioperative morbidity and mortality compared with TP cases utilizing more distal clamping.

[Endovascular aortic repair: the hostile aneurysm neck : Morphologic definition, impact on long-term outcome, and treatment options]

DEFINITION

A hostile neck is defined by various anatomical conditions that describe a morphology of the proximal aneurysmal neck of infrarenal aortic aneurysms that is unfavorable for endovascular treatment (endovascular aortic repair, EVAR): proximal landing zone length ≤ 15 mm, angulation of the aortic neck > 60°, conical aortic neck, diameter of the aortic neck > 32 mm, and circumferential calcification/thrombus.

EFFECTS ON OUTCOME

These morphological parameters are not only associated with a higher perioperative technical failure rate (primary type 1 endoleak) but also with poorer long-term results (secondary type 1 endoleak) and thus a higher reintervention rate in standard EVAR, so that standard EVAR should be reserved for a few exceptions in these cases.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Due to the rapid development of endovascular techniques in the last decade, we now have a variety of endovascular options for aneurysms with hostile necks, for both elective treatment and emergency care, in addition to conventional open surgery, which is still the standard method in many cases and is currently undergoing a renaissance: fenestrated endovascular aortic repair (FEVAR) as the method of first choice in the elective setting, EVAR with chimneys (ChEVAR), endosuture aneurysm repair (ESAR). An important option is the conservative approach, which can be a reasonable choice if the patient's preference is taken into account and a careful risk-benefit assessment is performed.

Open Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in the Endovascular Era

The aim of the study was to analyse outcomes and determine the early and late complications in patients after open surgical treatment of AAA in the endovascular era. Two hundred and fourteen patients between January 2012 and December 2021 with open repair in primary infrarenal and juxtarena aneurysm in elective setting were included in the study. Pre-, intra-, and postoperative clinical data were statistically analysed. The mean age of the 214 patients was 65.5 ± 9.3 years. The mean follow-up was 22.1 ± 2.1 months. Men represented the majority of the studied group (85.5%). The mean aortic diameter was 58.2 ± 13.4. The median ICU (days) stay was 5 ± 4.9 days for infrarenal aneurysm and 6 ± 6.1 days for juxtarenal aneurysm. Four patients died within 30 days, giving an in-hospital mortality rate of 1.9%. In multivariate logistic regression, COPD (p = 0.015) was the only predictor significantly associated with the mortality. A comparison of survival and reintervention using a Kaplan–Meier curve showed no significant difference between the groups in terms of risk stratification and the groups with juxtarenal versus infrarenal aneurysms. In conclusion, open aneurysm repair is in the era of endovascular aneurysm repair, being safe and effective, especially when performed in specialised high-volume centres with large expertise.

Effects of Suprarenal Aortic Cross-Clamping and Adjunctive Renal Reconstruction on Outcomes of Open Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

PURPOSE

To analyze our contemporary experience in open abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair. We focused on the effects of suprarenal (SR) aortic cross-clamping and adjunctive renal reconstruction (RR) on postoperative outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our institutional data of 141 consecutive patients who received elective open AAA repair between January 2014 and December 2020.

RESULTS

Seventy-five procedures were performed with SR aortic cross-clamping, 20 of which required an adjunctive RR. Patients in the SR group had a higher incidence of postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) (18.7% vs. 7.6%, P = 0.045). There were no significant between-group differences in other major complications. The 30-day mortality rate in the infrarenal (IR) and SR groups was 0% and 1.3%, respectively. After a median follow-up of 33 months, the rates of chronic renal decline in the IR (18.2%) and SR (21.3%) groups were similar. All reconstructed renal arteries were patent without reintervention. The 5-year overall survival rate in the IR and SR groups was 88.8% and 83.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

SR aortic cross-clamping was associated with postoperative AKI but neither SR aortic cross-clamping nor RR affected the long-term renal function or mortality. Open repair remains an essential option for patients with AAA, especially those with complex anatomy.

A Retroperitoneal Operative Approach is Associated with Improved Perioperative Outcomes Compared with a Transperitoneal Approach in Open Repair of Complex Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

OBJECTIVES

Several studies have demonstrated advantages of a retroperitoneal approach (RP) over a transperitoneal approach (TP) during open repair of infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). We compared outcomes following open repair of complex AAA (cAAA) using an RP versus a TP approach and evaluated the relative use of these approaches over time.

METHODS

We identified all patients undergoing open intact cAAA repair in the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI) from 2003-2019 and created 1:1-propensity score-matched cohorts based on operative approach (RP vs. TP). The primary outcome was perioperative mortality. Secondary outcomes included perioperative complications and approach usage over time. To create 1:1-propensity score-matched cohorts, patients were matched for demographics, comorbidities and anatomic/intraoperative characteristics including proximal clamp site and renal revascularization. Approach usage over time was determined by plotting the proportion of RP usage over time for the overall open cAAA cohort and subgroups of repairs utilizing a supraceliac cross clamp, repair with concomitant renal revascularization, and repairs in high volume centers (highest quintile: >11 cases/year).

RESULTS

Of 4,613 patients, 2,843 (62%) patients underwent open cAAA repair by TP approach and 1,770 (38%) patients by RP approach. In 1,256 matched pairs, RP approach was associated with lower risk of perioperative mortality compared with TP approach (3.9% vs. 6.8%/RR 0.57 [95%CI 0.41-0.80], p=.001). Furthermore, RP approach was associated with lower risk of cardiac complication (7.2% vs. 9.6%/RR 0.75 [95%CI 0.58-0.98]), bowel ischemia (3.1% vs. 5.4%/RR 0.56 [95%CI 0.39-0.84]) and postoperative dialysis (3.3% vs. 5.5%/RR 0.59 [95%CI 0.41-0.87]). Overall, there was a lower proportion of patients who underwent repair via an RP approach over time (-1.0%/year [-1.5 - -0.5], p<.001), and a similar trend in decrease was found within patients undergoing repair with a supraceliac clamp (-2.3%/year [-3.6 - -1.0], p<.001) and in high-volume hospitals (-2.1%/year [-3.4 - -0.8], p=.001), although no statistically significant decrease in RP usage was found in patients undergoing concomitant renal revascularization (-0.9%/year [-2.6 - 0.8], p=.28).

CONCLUSION

For open cAAA repair, an RP approach is associated with lower perioperative mortality and complications compared with a TP approach. However, relative usage of the RP approach is decreasing over time. Increased adoption of an RP approach, when appropriate, may lead to improved outcomes following open cAAA repair.

Renal Ischemia/Reperfusion Early Induces Myostatin and PCSK9 Expression in Rat Kidneys and HK-2 Cells

During visceral interventions, the transient clampage of supraceliac aorta causes ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) in kidneys, sometime resulting in acute renal failure; preclinical studies identified redox imbalance as the main driver of I/R injury. However, in humans, the metabolic/inflammatory responses seem to prevail on oxidative stress. We investigated myostatin (Mstn) and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), proatherogenic mediators, during renal I/R. Compared to sham-operated animals, the kidneys of rats who had experienced ischemia (30 min) had higher Mstn and PCSK9 expression after 4 h of reperfusion. After 24 h, they displayed tubular necrosis, increased nitrotyrosine positivity, and nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1alpha relocation, markers of oxidative stress and mitochondria imbalance. Mstn immunopositivity was increased in tubuli, while PCSK9 immunosignal was depleted; systemically, PCSK9 was higher in plasma from I/R rats. In HK-2 cells, both ischemia and reperfusion enhanced reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial dysfunction. H₂O₂ upregulated Mstn and PCSK9 mRNA after 1 and 3.5 h, respectively. Accordingly, ischemia early induced Mstn and PCSK9 mRNA; during reperfusion Mstn was augmented and PCSK9 decreased. Mstn treatment early increased PCSK9 expression (within 8 h), to diminish over time; finally, Mstn silencing restrained ischemia-induced PCSK9. Our study demonstrates that renal I/R enhances Mstn and PCSK9 expression and that Mstn induces PCSK9, suggesting them as therapeutic targets for vascular protection during visceral surgery.

Predictors of sac regression after fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair

OBJECTIVE

Aneurysm sac regression after standard endovascular aortic repair is associated with improved outcomes, but similar data are limited after fenestrated endovascular aortic repair (FEVAR). We sought to evaluate sac regression after FEVAR, and identify any predictors of this favorable outcome.

METHODS

Patients undergoing elective FEVAR using the commercially available Zenith Fenestrated device (ZFEN; Cook Medical, Bloomington, IN) from 2012 to 2018 at a single institution were reviewed retrospectively. The maximal aortic diameter was compared between the preoperative scan and those obtained in follow-up. Patients with of 5 mm or more sac regression were included in the regression (REG) group, with all others in the nonregression (NONREG) group. Outcomes were compared between groups using univariate analysis, and logistic regression analysis was performed to identify any predictive factors for sac regression.

RESULTS

We included 132 patients undergoing FEVAR in the analysis. At a mean follow-up of 33.1 months, 65 patients (49.2%) had sac regression of 5 mm or more and comprised the REG group (n = 65 [49.2%]). The REG group had smaller diameter devices, and were less likely to have had concomitant chimney grafts placed (P < .05). The NONREG group had a higher incidence of type II endoleak (35.8% vs 12.3%; P = .002). Sac regression was associated with a significant mortality benefit on Kaplan-Meier analysis (log rank P = .02). Multivariate analysis identified adjunctive parallel grafting (odds ratio [OR], 0.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.03-0.36; P < .01), persistent type II endoleak (OR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.02-0.74; P < .01), and a greater number of target vessels (OR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.10-0.62; P = .002) as independent predictors of failure to regress.

CONCLUSIONS

Sac regression after FEVAR occurred in nearly one-half of patients, but seems to be less common in patients with persistent type II endoleaks and those undergoing concomitant parallel grafting. Sac regression was associated with a significant survival advantage, and can be used as a clinical marker for success after FEVAR.

Is Mini-Invasive Surgery an Alternative for the Treatment of Juxtarenal Aortic Aneurysms?

INTRODUCTION

Aim of our study is to evaluate the outcomes of mini-laparotomy, suprarenal cross-clamping, and enhanced recovery after elective open surgical repair for juxta-renal abdominal aortic aneurysms (JAAA) in a tertiary referral center.

METHODS

Data of all consecutive patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) electively treated with left sub-costal mini-laparotomy requiring infrarenal or suprarenal cross-clamping between 2013 and 2018 were retrospectively collected. Patients were divided into two groups: infra-renal cross-clamping (group A) and JAAA requiring supra-renal cross-clamping (group B). Early and mid-term mortality, postoperative renal dysfunction according to RIFLE criteria and factors affecting postoperative outcome were analysed.

RESULTS

Four hundred one patients, 356 (88.8%) men, mean age 70.8 yrs, underwent open surgical repair (OSR), 343 (85.5%) AAA in group A, 58 (14.5%) JAAA in group B. Mean diameter of the aneurysms was 54 ± 11.4 mm vs. 52 ± 9 mm and mean time of intervention 154.9 ± 56.3 min vs. 180.1 ± 65.7 min respectively. Total clamp time was 72.27 ± 31.4 vs. 75 ± 33.1 and suprarenal clamp time in group B 27.82 ± 14.1 min. Mean hospital length of stay was 5.1 ± 2.8 vs. 5.37 ± 3.4 days respectively. At 30 days, 3 (0.9%) patients died in group A and no one in group B; at 24 months 7 (2%) deaths in group A and 4 (6.9%) in group B. Preoperative, postoperative and discharge serum creatinine mean value, in group B, were 1.07 ± 0.32, 1.31 ± 0.36 and 1.83 ± 1.24 respectively. Based on RIFLE criteria for renal function, we observed Risk in 14.2% and Injury in 12.7% of patients after suprarenal cross clamping.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that mini-invasive open repair for JAAA with a suprarenal cross-clamping can be performed with acceptable morbidity and mortality rates similar to traditional surgical approach without significant modifications of renal functions.

Exclusion of complex aortic aneurysm with chimney endovascular aortic repair is applicable in a minority of patients treated with fenestrated endografts

OBJECTIVES

The Medtronic Endurant II stent graft has recently received Conformité Européenne (CE) approval for the use in chimney endovascular aortic repair (ChEVAR) for the treatment for juxtarenal aortic aneurysms. The aim of this study was to assess the percentage of patients treated by fenestrated endovascular repair who would have been alternatively suitable for the treatment by the CE approved Medtronic ChEVAR.

METHODS

Preoperative computed tomography scans of 100 patients who underwent fenestrated endovascular aortic repair (FEVAR) between April 2013 and February 2017 were retrospectively assessed for the applicability of the ChEVAR technique according to the Medtronic instructions for use. Eligibility criteria included an aortic neck diameter of 19-30 mm, a minimum infrarenal neck length of 2 mm, a total proximal sealing zone of at least 15 mm, thrombus in the aortic neck in ˂25% of the circumference, and maximum aortic angulations of 60° in the infrarenal, 45° in the suprarenal segment and ˂45° above the superior mesenteric artery.

RESULTS

According to CE-approved inclusion criteria, 19 individuals (19%) would have been eligible for ChEVAR. In 81 patients, at least 1 measure was found outside instructions for use: (i) excluding factor was detected in 26 patients, (ii) incongruous measures in 28 patients and in 27 patients, 3-5 measures were outside the instructions for use. The most frequently identified excluding factor was an insufficient infrarenal neck at ˂2 mm length (n = 63; 63%).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with juxta- or pararenal aneurysm treated by FEVAR are in 19% of the cases alternatively suitable for the treatment by ChEVAR within CE-approved instructions for use. While ChEVAR is suitable in many emergency cases, FEVAR offers a broader applicability in an elective setting.

Pre and postoperative predictors of clinical outcome of fenestrated and branched endovascular repair for complex abdominal and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms in an Italian multicenter registry

OBJECTIVE

Complex aortic aneurysms (juxtarenal j-AAA, pararenal p-AAAs, thoracoabdominal TAAAs) are treated with increasing frequency through fenestrated and branched endovascular repair (F/B-EVAR), however the outcome of these procedures is usually reported separately by single experiences and wider overviews are not frequent. The aim of this study was therefore to report an Italian experience analyzing the results obtained in 4 academic centers in order to evaluate predictors of outcome.

METHODS

Between 2008 and 2019, all consecutive patients undergoing F/B-EVAR in 4 Italian university centers were prospectively recorded and retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative comorbidities and postoperative complications were classified according with the SVS-reporting standard. Postoperative complications and 30-day / in-hospital mortality were assessed as early outcomes. Survival, freedom from reinterventions (FFRs) and target visceral vessels (TVVs) patency were assessed as follow-up outcomes by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Risk factors for 30-day / in-hospital mortality and spinal cord ischemia (SCI) were determined by multivariate analysis. Risk factors for follow-up mortality and reinterventions were evaluated by Cox-regression model.

RESULTS

Five hundred and ninety-six patients underwent F/B-EVAR for 124(21%) j-AAAs, 121(20%) p-AAAs and 351(59%) TAAAs. Elective and urgent procedures were performed in 520(87%) and 76(13%) cases, respectively. Postoperative cardiac, pulmonary and renal complications were reported in 41(7%), 50(8%) and 80(13%) patients, respectively. Seven (1%) bowel ischemia and 23(4%) cerebrovascular complications occurred. Forty-seven (8%) patients suffered SCI with 17(3%) cases of permanent paraplegia. Crawford's extent I-II-III TAAAs (OR:13.41; 95%CI:1.77-101.65; P=.012) and postoperative renal complications (OR:3.84; 95%CI:1.70-8.69; P=.001) independently predicted SCI. Thirty-two (5%) patients died in the perioperative period. Preoperative chronic renal failure (OR:7.81; 95%CI:7.81-26.31; P=.001), postoperative bowel ischemia (OR:26.97; 95%CI:3.37-215.5; P=.002), cardiac (OR:5.77; 95%CI:1.41-23.64; P=<.001),cerebrovascular (OR:28.63; 95%CI:5.20-157.5; P:<.001) complications and SCI (OR:5.99; 95%CI:1.12-32.5; P=.036) were independently correlated with 30-day/hospital mortality. The mean follow-up was 25+7months. Freedom from TVVs occlusion and FFR were 96% and 92% at 1 year and 93% and 85% at 3 years, respectively. TAAAs (HR:3.16; 95%CI:1.68-5.92; P=<.001), post dissection TAAAs (HR:2.20; 95%CI:1.30-4.90; P=.05) and postoperative bowel ischemia (HR:11.98; 95%CI:1.53-93.31; P=.018) were independent predictors of reinterventions. Survival was 88% and 78% at 1 and 3 years, respectively. Preoperative chronic renal failure (HR:2.39; 95%CI:1.59-3.59; P=<.001), urgent repair (HR:1.80; 95%CI:1.03-3.20; P=.039), TAAAs (HR:2.01; 95%CI:1.13-3.56; P=.017),postoperative bowel ischemia (HR:5.55; 95%CI:2.11-14.59; P=.001), cardiac (HR:3.89; 95%CI:2.25-6.71; P=<.001) and pulmonary (HR:1.97; 95%CI:1.56-3.35; P=.013) complications were independent predictors of mortality during follow up.

CONCLUSION

F/B-EVAR is associated with satisfactory mid-term outcomes in a nationwide experience. A variety of risk factors should be considered in FB-EVAR indication and post-operative patients management in order to reduce the risk of postoperative complications and improve mid-term outcome.

Fenestrated Endovascular Aneurysm Repair Affords Fewer Renal Complications than Open Surgical Repair for Juxtarenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms in Patients with Chronic Renal Insufficiency

OBJECTIVE

Although fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR) has been associated with lower morbidity and mortality than open surgical repair (OSR) in juxtarenal aneurysms (JAAA), there is a paucity of data in the literature comparing outcomes of the approaches specifically in patients with chronic renal insufficiency (CRI). We hypothesized that benefits of FEVAR over OSR observed in the general patient population may be diminished in CRI patients due to their heightened vulnerability to renal dysfunction stemming from contrast-induced nephropathy. This study compares 30-day outcomes between FEVAR and OSR for JAAA in patients with non-dialysis dependent CRI.

METHODS

All adults with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min (but not requiring dialysis) undergoing elective, non-ruptured JAAA repairs were identified in the American College of Surgeons - National Surgical Quality Improvement (ACS-NSQIP) Targeted EVAR and AAA databases from 2012-2018. JAAA were identified by recorded proximal aneurysm extent. FEVAR patients were identified in the Targeted EVAR database as those receiving the "Cook Zenith Fenestrated" endograft. OSR cases were defined as those that required proximal clamp positions "above one renal" or "between SMA & renals." Infra-renal or supra-celiac proximal clamp placement, or cases involving concomitant renal/visceral revascularization were excluded. Thirty-day outcomes including mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), pulmonary, and renal complications were compared between FEVAR and OSR groups.

RESULTS

There were 284 patients with CRI who underwent elective repair of JAAA (FEVAR: 89; OSR: 195). FEVAR patients were significantly older than those undergoing OSR (77.3±7.2 vs. 74.2±7.7, P=0.001) and less likely to be smokers (25.8% vs 42.1%; P = 0.009). Other baseline demographic and pre-operative parameters were comparable between the two groups.Multivariable analysis revealed no significant difference between FEVAR and OSR in 30-day mortality (4.5% vs 4.6%; OR=1.22; 95% CI=0.35 - 4.22; P=0.753) or unplanned re-operation (4.5% vs 5.1%; OR=0.78; 95% CI=0.22 - 2.70; P=0.693). Patients undergoing FEVAR had significantly fewer pulmonary complications (3.4% vs 18.5%; OR=0.12; 95% CI=0.03 - 0.42; P<0.001) and renal dysfunction (3.4% vs 11.8%; OR 0.24 95% CI=0.07 - 0.86; P=0.029) compared to OSR. FEVAR was also associated with significantly shorter ICU and hospital lengths of stay (ICU stay: 0 days vs 3 days, P<0.0001; hospital stay: 3 days vs 8 days, P<0.0001).

CONCLUSION

For patients with chronic renal insufficiency, FEVAR offered improved perioperative renal morbidity compared to OSR without a corresponding mortality benefit. Future studies will be required to determine long term outcomes of this procedure in this vulnerable population.

Use of Heparin-Bonded Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Grafts for Renal Artery Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to analyze our initial experience in renal artery reconstruction with heparin-bonded expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) grafts.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed the data of consecutive patients who received open renal reconstruction with a heparin-bonded ePTFE graft at our institution between January 2014 and December 2019.

RESULTS

A total of 22 renal reconstructions with a heparin-bonded ePTFE graft were performed in 17 consecutive patients. In all cases, renal reconstruction was a concomitant procedure during surgical or endovascular aortic procedures. Postoperative complications within 30 days were observed in 9 (53%) patients, including acute kidney injury (n = 6), pneumonia (n = 1), retrograde type B aortic dissection (n = 1), and lower limb ischemia (n = 1). The 30-day mortality rate was 0%. In a median follow-up period of 32 (19-39) months, all grafts were patent without re-intervention. Six patients with preoperative stage 2 chronic kidney disease progressed to stage 3 during follow-up. No patient required temporary or permanent hemodialysis. One patient died from intestinal ischemia at 23 months after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that the patency after open renal reconstruction with a heparin-bonded ePTFE graft was excellent, with acceptable renal outcomes, and demonstrates its safety as a concomitant procedure during an aortic procedure. Heparin-bonded ePTFE grafts are a feasible and effective choice for open renal reconstruction in contemporary practice.

Proximal Aortic Coverage and Clinical Results of the Endovascular Repair of Juxta-/Para-renal and Type IV Thoracoabdominal Aneurysm with Custom-made Fenestrated Endografts

BACKGROUND

Juxta-renal (JAAA)/para-renal (PAAA) and type IV-thoracoabdominal (TAAA) aneurysms can be repaired by custom-made fenestrated endografts (CM-FEVAR). Differently from open repair, a relatively long segment of healthy proximal aorta needs to be covered to achieve a durable sealing, and this may be considered a disadvantage of the endovascular approach. We aimed to quantify the additional proximal aortic coverage in JAAAs, PAAAs, and type-IV TAAAs treated with CM-FEVAR and to evaluate its impact on early/follow-up clinical outcomes.

METHODS

Between 2006 and 2018, preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data of JAAAs, PAAAs, and type-IV TAAAs submitted to CM-FEVAR were collected. The length of proximal healthy aortic coverage was evaluated on the preoperative endograft planning as the distance between the top of the CM-FEVAR endograft and the hypothetical level of aortic cross-clamping in case of open repair (type-IV TAAA-above the celiac trunk; PAAA-above the superior mesenteric artery; JAAA-above the lowest renal artery). Spinal cord ischemia (SCI), bowel ischemia (BI), renal function worsening (RFW) (estimated glomerular filtration rate reduction > 25% of the baseline level - RFW), and mortality were assessed at 30-day. Survival, target visceral vessel (TVV) patency, and freedom from reinterventions (FFRs) were assessed during follow-up by Kaplan-Meier analysis R2.

RESULTS

One hundred forty-seven cases were submitted to CM-FEVAR, for 72 (49%) JAAAs, 46 (31%) PAAAs, and 29 (20%) type IV-TAAAs, with 1(4-3%), 2 (28-19%), 3 (48-33%), and 4 (67-45%) fenestrations. JAAAs required a fenestration + bridging stent graft for the superior mesenteric artery and celiac trunk, in 46(64%) and 24(33%) cases, respectively. Nineteen (41%) PAAAs required a fenestration + bridging stent graft for the celiac trunk. The mean proximal additional aortic coverage was 48 ± 2 mm with no differences among JAAAs (52 ± 1 mm), PAAAs (42 ± 2 mm), and type IV-TAAAs (50 ± 2 mm) (P.09). Technical success, defined as correct endograft deployment, with TVV patency, absence of type I-III endoleaks, iliac leg stenosis/occlusions, open surgical conversion, and 24-hour mortality, was achieved in 98% of cases. Failures occurred for 1 type-III endoleak (type-IV TAAA) and 2 renal artery losses (PAAA and type IV-TAAA). The only case of SCI (0.7%) occurred in a type-IV TAAA where the proximal healthy aortic coverage was 80 mm. One BI was caused by acute thrombosis of the bridging stent graft for the superior mesenteric artery at 24 hours in 1 type IV-TAAA (0.7%). Thirty-five patients (24%) suffered postoperative RFW and required hemodialysis in 1 (0.7%) JAAA with severe preoperative chronic renal failure. There was no difference of proximal additional aortic coverage between patients with (49 ± 29 mm) and without (48 ± 23 mm) RFW (P.2). The 30-day mortality was 1.4%. The mean follow-up was 37 ± 2 months with no cases of aneurysm-related late mortality. Survival was 94%, 89%, and 75% at 1, 2, and 5 years, respectively. TVV patency was 97%, 97%, and 93% at 1, 2, and 5 years, respectively. FFR was 98%, 95%, and 87% at 1, 2, and 5 years, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Custom-made FEVAR requires a mean proximal additional aortic coverage of 48 ± 2 mm above the level of hypothetical aortic cross-clamping in case of open repair. This aspect should be considered for CM-FEVAR indication in JAAAs, PAAAs, and type-IV TAAAs; nevertheless, it does not appear to be associated with negative early and follow-up clinical sequelae.

Staged in situ aorto-iliac hybrid technique: an original technique to treat complex juxtarenal and iliac aneurysms

BACKGROUND

To report a novel staged hybrid technique to treat complex juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (JAAA) associated with at least one iliac artery aneurysm (IA) with no adequate distal fixation zone.

METHODS

The novel technique herein described has two main "staged" steps. The first step consists in creating an adequate distal fixation zone by endovascular means; after hypogastric embolization an iliac stent-graft has placed from 5 mm above the aortic bifurcation to the external iliac artery. The second step is the surgical resection of the JAAA and graft placement sutured distally to the stent-graft which was always performed the day after.

RESULTS

The five cases included (mean age 74 years), were rejected for fenestrated or branched endovascular aortic repair or iliac branch devices. Four tube grafts and one aorto-bi-iliac graft were sutured to one stent-graft (N.=3), two stent-grafts in iliac kissing configuration (N.=1) and to a main body of a bifurcated stent-graft (N.=1). Mean follow-up duration was 14 (4-27) months with no mortality. Technical success was obtained in all cases (2 suprarenal clamping). Postoperative complications included two pleural effusions, two transient gluteal intermittent claudications, and one renal failure.

CONCLUSIONS

The technique herein described seems to be a feasible and cost-effective alternative treatment for selected concomitant complex JAAAs and IAs unsuitable for totally endovascular treatment.

Editor's Choice - Mortality is High Following Elective Open Repair of Complex Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the 30 day mortality of elective open complex abdominal aortic aneurysm (cAAA) repair and identify factors associated with death.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study using a Targeted Vascular Module from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP). All patients undergoing elective repair for juxta- and suprarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), or type IV thoraco-abdominal aneurysms (TAAA) from 2011 to 2017 were identified. Thirty day mortality and complication rates for open repair were established. A comparison endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) group was extracted from the same time period, and inverse probability weighting was applied for comparison. Logistic regression was used to identify factors independently associated with open repair mortality.

RESULTS

Of the 957 patients who underwent an elective open cAAA repair over the study period, 65 (6.8%) died. The mean age of the patient was 71.3 ± 8.0 years. The distribution by aneurysm type was 605 juxtarenal AAA (28 deaths, 4.6%); 284 suprarenal AAA (16 deaths, 9.5%), and 68 type IV TAAA (10 deaths, 14.7%). During the same time period, there were 1149 endovascular repairs for cAAA, with 43 deaths (3.7%). After inverse probability weighting and weighted logistic regression, open repair 30 day mortality yielded an OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2-3.1, p = .01 compared with EVAR. Factors independently associated with death included more proximal extent aneurysm (referent [ref]: juxtarenal: OR 2.0 per extent increase, 95% CI 1.4-3.0, p < .001), BMI < 18.5 (OR 4.0, 95% CI 1.6-10.1, p = .003), history of severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.5-4.4, p = .001), more severe chronic kidney disease (CKD) (ref: none/mild): OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2-2.8, p = .004), and age (OR 1.06/year, 95% CI 1.02-1.09, p = .002.

CONCLUSION

The 30 day mortality was 4.6% for juxtarenal AAA, 9.5% for suprarenal AAA, and 14.7% for type IV TAAA. The open repair odds of 30 day mortality was nearly twice that of endovascular repair for cAAA. Independent associations with death included BMI <18.5, more severe CKD level, more proximally extending aneurysm, age, and history of advanced COPD.

Open surgical repair of juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms in the elderly is not associated with increased thirty-day mortality compared with fenestrated endovascular grafting

OBJECTIVE

Endovascular repair of juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms (JAAAs) with fenestrated grafts (fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair [FEVAR]) has been reported to decrease operative mortality and morbidity compared with open surgical repair (OSR). However, previous comparisons of OSR and FEVAR have not necessarily included patients with comparable clinical profiles and aneurysm extent. Although FEVAR has often been chosen as the first-line therapy for high-risk patients such as the elderly, many patients will not have anatomy favorable for FEVAR. At present, a paucity of data has examined the operative outcomes of OSR in elderly patients for JAAAs relative to FEVAR. Therefore, we chose to perform a propensity-matched comparison of OSR and FEVAR for JAAA repair in patients aged ≥70 years.

METHODS

Patients aged ≥70 years who had undergone elective nonruptured JAAA repairs from 2012 to 2018 were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) targeted endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and AAA databases. Patients who had undergone FEVAR were identified in the targeted EVAR database as those who had received the Cook Zenith Fenestrated endograft (Cook Medical, Bloomington, Ind). Because our study specifically examined JAAAs, those patients who had undergone OSR with supraceliac proximal clamping or concomitant renal/visceral revascularization were excluded. A 1:1 propensity-match algorithm matched the OSR and FEVAR patients by preoperative clinical and demographic characteristics, operative indications, and aneurysm extent. The 30-day outcomes, including mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events, and pulmonary and renal complications, were compared between the propensity-matched OSR and FEVAR groups.

RESULTS

A 1:1 propensity match was achieved, and the final analysis included 136 OSR patients and 136 FEVAR patients. No significant differences were found in 30-day mortality (4.4% vs 3.7%; odds ratio [OR], 1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.36-4.06; P = .759) between the OSR and FEVAR groups. OSR was associated with a higher incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events compared with FEVAR; however, the trend was not statistically significant (8.1% vs 3.7%; OR, 2.31; 95% CI, 0.78-6.82; P = .131). Compared with FEVAR, the OSR group had significantly greater rates of pulmonary complications (19.1% vs 3.7%; OR, 6.19; 95% CI, 2.30-16.67; P < .001) and renal complications (8.1% vs 2.2%; OR, 3.90; 95% CI, 1.06-14.31; P = .040).

CONCLUSIONS

In the samples assessed in the present study, the results with OSR of JAAAs in the elderly did not differ from those of FEVAR with respect to 30-day mortality despite a greater incidence of pulmonary and renal complications. Although FEVAR should remain the first-line therapy for JAAAs in elderly patients, OSR might be an acceptable alternative for select patients with anatomy unfavorable for FEVAR.

Thirty-day outcomes of open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair by proximal clamp level in patients with normal and impaired renal function

OBJECTIVE

Open surgical repair (OSR) of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) has often been reserved in contemporary practice for complex aneurysms requiring a suprarenal or supraceliac proximal clamp level. The present study investigated the associated 30-day outcomes of different proximal clamp levels in OSR of complex infrarenal/juxtarenal AAA in patients with normal renal function and those with chronic renal insufficiency (CRI).

METHODS

All patients undergoing elective OSR of infrarenal and juxtarenal AAA were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program-targeted AAA database from 2012 to 2018. The patients were stratified into two cohorts (normal renal function [estimated glomerular filtration rate, ≥60 mL/min] and CRI [estimated glomerular filtration rate, <60 mL/min and no dialysis]) before further substratification into groups by the proximal clamp level (infrarenal, inter-renal, suprarenal, and supraceliac). The 30-day outcomes, including mortality, renal and pulmonary complications, and major adverse cardiovascular event rates, were compared within each renal function cohort between proximal clamp level groups using the infrarenal clamp group as the reference. Supraceliac clamping was also compared with suprarenal clamping.

RESULTS

A total of 1284 patients with normal renal function and 524 with CRI were included in the present study. The proximal clamp levels for the 1808 patients were infrarenal for 1080 (59.7%), inter-renal for 337 (18.6%), suprarenal for 279 (15.4%), and supraceliac for 112 (6.2%). In the normal renal function cohort, no difference was found in 30-day mortality with any clamp level. Increased 30-day acute renal failure was only observed in the supraceliac vs infrarenal clamp level comparison (5.9% vs 1.5%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.97; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04-5.18; P = .044). In the CRI cohort, supraceliac clamping was associated with an increased rate of renal composite complications (22.7% vs 5.6%; aOR, 8.81; 95% CI, 3.17-24.46; P < .001) and ischemic colitis (13.6% vs 3.0%; aOR, 4.78; 95% CI, 1.38-16.62; P = .014) compared with infrarenal clamping and greater 30-day mortality (13.6% vs 2.4%; aOR, 6.00; 95% CI, 1.14-31.55; P = .034) and renal composite complications (22.7% vs 10.8%; aOR, 2.87; 95% CI, 1.02-8.13; P = .047) compared with suprarenal clamping. Suprarenal clamping was associated with greater renal dysfunction (10.8% vs 5.6%; aOR, 2.77; 95% CI, 1.08-7.13; P = .035) compared with infrarenal clamping, with no differences in mortality. No differences were found in 30-day mortality or morbidity for inter-renal clamping compared with infrarenal clamping in either cohort. No differences were found in major adverse cardiovascular events with higher clamp levels in either cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

In elective OSR of infrarenal and juxtarenal AAAs for patients with CRI, this study found a heightened mortality risk with supraceliac clamping and increased renal morbidity with suprarenal clamping, though these effects were not present for patients with normal renal function. Every effort should be made to keep the proximal clamp level as low as possible, especially in patients with CRI.

Evolving Utility of Endovascular Treatment of Juxtarenal, Pararenal, and Suprarenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Associated With Increased Risk of Mortality Over Time

BACKGROUND

Continued advances in endovascular technologies are resulting in fewer open abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repairs. In addition, more complex juxtarenal, pararenal, and suprarenal (JPS) AAAs are being managed with various endovascular techniques. This study sought to evaluate the evolving trends in endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) of AAAs, hypothesizing increased rate of JPS AAA repair by EVAR. We also sought to evaluate the risk for morbidity and mortality for EVAR and open aneurysm repair (OAR) of JPS AAAs over time.

METHODS

The 2011-2017 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Procedure-Targeted Vascular database was queried for patients undergoing OAR or EVAR for AAAs. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed for both infrarenal and JPS AAA repairs.

RESULTS

Of 18,661 patients who underwent AAA repair, 3,941 (21.1%) were OAR and 14,720 (78.9%) were EVAR. The rate of OAR decreased from 29.5% in 2011 to 21.3% in 2017 (P < 0.001) with a geometric-mean-annual decrease of 27.8%. The rate of EVAR increased from 70.5% to 78.7% during the same time period (P < 0.001) with a geometric-mean-annual increase of 11.6%. These trends remained true for both infrarenal and JPS AAAs. After adjusting for covariates, there was no difference in associated risk of 30-day mortality, renal complications, or ischemic colitis for either OAR or EVAR over each incremental year for infrarenal AAAs (P > 0.05). However, in patients undergoing EVAR for JPS AAAs, the associated risk of mortality increased with each incremental year (odds ratio [OR]: 1.30, confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-1.69, P = 0.039), whereas there was no difference in the risk of mortality for OAR of JPS AAAs with each incremental year (OR: 1.11, CI: 0.99-1.23, P = 0.067).

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of OAR for AAA has decreased over the past seven years with an increase in EVAR, particularly for more complex JPS AAAs. The associated risk for morbidity and mortality for treatment of infrarenal AAAs was not significantly affected by this increased utility of EVAR. The associated risk of mortality for JPS AAAs treated by EVAR increased over time, whereas this trend for associated risk of mortality was not seen for OAR of JPS AAAs. These findings, especially the increased associated risk of mortality over time with EVAR for JPS AAAs, warrant careful prospective analysis.

Fenestrated repair improves perioperative outcomes but lacks a hospital volume association for complex abdominal aortic aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Complex abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) have traditionally been treated with an open surgical repair (OSR). During the past decade, fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR) has emerged as a viable option. Hospital procedural volume to outcome relationship for OSR of complex AAAs has been well established, but the impact of procedural volume on FEVAR outcomes remains undefined. This study investigated the outcomes of OSR and FEVAR for the treatment of complex AAAs and examined the hospital volume-outcome relationship for these procedures.

METHODS

A retrospective review of a statewide vascular surgery registry was queried for all patients between 2012 and 2018 who underwent elective repair of a juxtarenal/pararenal AAA with FEVAR or OSR. The primary outcomes were 30-day mortality, myocardial infarction, and new dialysis. Secondary end points included postoperative pneumonia, renal dysfunction (creatine concentration increase of >2 mg/dL from preoperative baseline), major bleeding, early procedural complications, length of stay, and need for reintervention. To evaluate procedural volume-outcomes relationship, hospitals were stratified into low- and high-volume aortic centers based on a FEVAR annual procedural volume. To account for baseline differences, we calculated propensity scores and employed inverse probability of treatment weighting in comparing outcomes between treatment groups.

RESULTS

A total of 589 patients underwent FEVAR (n = 186) or OSR (n = 403) for a complex AAA. After adjustment, OSR was associated with higher rates of 30-day mortality (10.7% vs 2.9%; P < .001) and need for dialysis (11.3% vs 1.8; P < .001). Postoperative pneumonia (6.8% vs 0.3%; P < .001) and need for transfusion (39.4% vs 10.4%; P < .001) were also significantly higher in the OSR cohort. The median length of stay for OSR and FEVAR was 9 days and 3 days, respectively. For those who underwent FEVAR, endoleaks were present in 12.1% of patients at 30 days and 6.1% of patients at 1 year, with the majority being type II. With a median follow-up period of 331 days (229-378 days), 1% of FEVAR patients required a secondary procedure, and there were no FEVAR conversions to an open aortic repair. Hospitals were divided into low- and high-volume aortic centers based on their annual FEVAR volume of complex AAAs. After adjustment, hospital FEVAR procedural volume was not associated with 30-day mortality or myocardial infarction.

CONCLUSIONS

FEVAR was associated with lower perioperative morbidity and mortality compared with OSR for the management of complex AAAs. Procedural FEVAR volume outcome analysis suggests limited differences in 30-day morbidity, although long-term durability warrants further research.

Protective Effects of Cold Ringer's Solution Perfusion in Abdominal Aortic Surgery Requiring Renal Artery Clamp

BACKGROUND/AIM

Treating abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) of the juxtarenal artery with renal artery clamps burdens the kidneys. We investigated the outcomes of intra-operative renal artery perfusion using the cold Ringer's solution method for renal protection.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We enrolled 290 AAA patients who underwent open aortic repair. Surgical outcomes were investigated based on renal protection.

RESULTS

We evaluated 231 patients requiring infrarenal artery clamp (Group I), and 59 patients requiring perfusion in addition to the clamp (Group J). Patient demographics, acute kidney injury (AKI) incidence (Group I: 11.7% and Group J: 20.3%), hospital mortality (Group I: 1.3% and Group J: 1.7%), and 30-day mortality (Group I: 0.4% and Group J: 0%) were not different between the groups. The AKI incidence was low (13%) in cases requiring a renal artery clamp for ≥45 min (n=40).

CONCLUSION

Perfusion with cold Ringer's solution offers renal protection and may improve surgical outcomes.

The role of fEVAR, chEVAR and open repair in treatment of juxtarenal aneurysms: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Open repair (OR), fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (fEVAR) and endovascular exclusion using parallel graft (chEVAR) are complementary procedures used for treatment of juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (jrAAA). The aim of our study was to assess available literature and analyze dispersion of OR, fEVAR and chEVAR procedures among reported papers related to treatment of jrAAA.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

The PubMed database was systematically searched using predefined strategy and key words related to treatment of jrAAA on September 28th, 2019. Studies were assessed for eligibility using the inclusion and exclusion criteria with at least five patients treated with at least one of the procedures while systematic reviews, meta-analysis, reviews, comments, editorials and letters were excluded as well as studies without clear classification of the location of the aneurysm, studies not specifying the number of patients treated with each of the techniques or not discriminated between aortic pathologies (juxtarenal, paravisceral and thoracoabdominal), hybrid procedures, endoanchors or with branched stent-graft.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Overall, 1533 papers were identified while papers that met inclusion criteria were either representing experience of single institution (87 papers) or from multicenter studies (6 papers), national or international registries (18 papers). In the period between January 1977 and December 2017, treatment of 5664 patients with jrAAA was reported in 87 papers as a single institution report. Out of them 2531 (45%) were treated with OR, 2592 (46%) with fEVAR and 541 (9%) with chEVAR. Out of 29 institutions reporting OR, there were 11 (37.9%) with more than 100 treated patients while 21 (41.1%) out of 51 institutions that reported more than 50 jrAAA treated with fEVAR. Only four institutions reported results of all three treatment modalities.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the results reported in the literature, regardless of its complexity and costs, fEVAR for jrAAA has been accepted in substantial number of hospitals worldwide, while number of reported procedures is reaching OR.

Fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair in patients with chronic kidney disease

OBJECTIVE

Renal function impairment is a common complication after open repair of complex abdominal aortic aneurysms and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs). The purpose of this study was to assess renal perioperative outcomes and renal function deterioration after fenestrated-branched endovascular aneurysm repair (F/BEVAR) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

METHODS

The study included 186 patients who underwent F/BEVAR between 2013 and 2018 for suprarenal, juxtarenal, and type I to type IV TAAAs. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was calculated using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) study equation. Postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) and CKD were defined using RIFLE criteria (Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss, and End-stage renal disease) and CKD staging system (stage ≥3, GFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m²), respectively. For those without baseline CKD, renal decline was defined as a drop in GFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m² (ie, progression to CKD stage 3 or higher). For patients with baseline renal dysfunction, GFR decline ≥20% or progression in CKD stage (ie, from stage 3 to stage 4) was considered renal decline.

RESULTS

CKD was present in 83 patients (44.6%). Postoperative AKI was diagnosed in 27 patients (14.5%); 13 (48.1%) had history of CKD and 14 (51.9%) had adequate renal function preoperatively (P = .8). None of these patients required permanent renal replacement therapy. Intraoperative technical success was 100%. Overall 30-day mortality was 1.1%. There was no difference in 30-day mortality in patients with (1.2%) and without (1.0%) CKD (P = .5). During a median follow-up time of 12 months (interquartile range, 6-23 months), renal decline was observed in 21 patients (25.3%) with previous CKD and in 11 patients (10.6%) without CKD (P = .01). Among patients with previous CKD, 18 patients (9%) progressed from stage 3 CKD to stage 4. In patients with progression in CKD stage, two (5%) had renal stent stenosis requiring restenting. Among patients with renal decline, 13 had juxtarenal aneurysms (21.3%), 27 had suprarenal aneurysms (44.3%), and 21 had TAAAs (34.3%; P = .4). Subset analysis of patients who developed AKI in the immediate postoperative period found that patients with a history of CKD were less likely to experience freedom from renal decline.

CONCLUSIONS

F/BEVAR is an effective and safe procedure for patients with complex abdominal aortic aneurysms and TAAAs, even among patients with CKD. The frequency of AKI was not affected by pre-existing CKD. Midterm outcomes demonstrated that progression of CKD was more frequent among patients with pre-existing CKD, but permanent renal replacement therapy was not required. Anatomic extent of aneurysms did not affect CKD progression. CKD patients are susceptible to renal decline over time if they experience AKI in the postoperative period. Therefore, preventing AKI in the postoperative period should be regarded as a priority. Long-term effects of CKD after F/BEVAR remain to be elucidated.

Surgical Repair of Juxtarenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms and safety of Suprarenal Aortic Clamping

BACKGROUND

Juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) comprises 15-20% of all AAAs and often requires open surgical repair (OSR) due to anatomical limitations associated with endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), particularly in the case of hostile proximal necks. This study aimed to evaluate short- and long-term outcomes of suprarenal clamping during OSR of juxtarenal AAAs and compare the outcomes of this technique with those of infrarenal clamping for AAAs.

METHODS

Between January 1 2014, and December 31 2016, 289 consecutive patients aged ≥40 years underwent primary repair for infrarenal AAAs, including 141 OSRs and 148 EVARs. Of the 141 patients, 20 were excluded and totally, 121 patients were included.

RESULTS

All patients had fusiform-type AAAs and were divided into infrarenal (N = 98) or suprarenal (N=23) clamp groups. The mean follow-up period was 51.4 months (95% CI: 48.6-54.2). Mean survival time was 51.4 months (95% CI: 48.6-54.2). Thirty-day mortality was 0.8%, and there was no significant difference between two groups (P > .999). Renal complication in infrarenal clamp group was 4.1% and suprarenal clamp group was 4.3% (P > .999). Old age (HR: 1.084; 95% CI: 1.025-1.147; P=.005) and high ASA score (HR: 2.361; 95% CI: 1.225-4.553; P = .010) were substantially associated with in-hospital complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Although endovascular procedures for repairing juxtarenal AAAs, such as fenestrated EVAR, have been developed, surgical repair is the standard treatment for juxtarenal AAAs. Morbidity and mortality due to open surgery were not higher in the juxtarenal AAA group than in the infrarenal AAA group. Therefore, need for suprarenal clamp should not preclude OSR and also there is continued need for training in surgical exposure of juxtarenal AAA and OSR.

Fenestrated endografting is the preferred option for juxta-renal aortic aneurysm reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to report early/mid-term-up outcomes of fenestrated endografting (FEVAR) for juxta-renal aneurysms (j-AAAs).

METHODS

Between 2008 and 2019, all consecutive j-AAAs treated by FEVAR were prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed. Early endpoints were technical success, renal function worsening and 30-day mortality. Follow-up endpoints were survival, freedom from re-interventions (FFRs) and target visceral vessels (TVVs) patency.

RESULTS

Among 240 cases of FB-EVAR, 98(41%) were j-AAAs. Endografts with 1,2,3,4 and 5 fenestrations were planned in 3(3%), 25(26%), 35(36%), 33(34%) and 2(1%) cases, respectively. Overall, 360 TVVs were treated by fenestrations and scallops. Technical success was achieved in 97(99%) cases. The only failure was 1 type III endoleak requiring renal artery relining. No TVVs were lost. Renal function worsening was reported in 22(22%) and 12(12%) cases at 24-hour and 30-day, respectively. One patient required hemodialysis and died within 30-day (1%). This was the only case of 30-day mortality. The mean follow-up was 36±32months. Aneurysm sac shrinkage or stability was observed in 55(56%) and 41(42%) cases, respectively. Two (2%) patients with persistent type II endoleak had sac enlargement and required re-interventions. Freedom from reinterventions at 5-year was 86%. An asymptomatic celiac trunk occlusion (accommodated by a scallop) occurred at 24-month in a case with a severe preoperative stenosis. No late renal arteries occlusions or type I-III endoleaks occurred. TVVs-patency was 96% at 5-year. Renal function worsening was reported in 10(10%) patients during follow-up. Survival at 5-year was 73%, with no j-AAA related mortality. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (P=0.007; OR:4.8; 95% CI: 1.5-15.3) and postoperative renal function worsening (P=0.028; OR:1,1; 95% CI: 1.1-1.2) were independent predictor for mortality at the multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

FEVAR for j-AAAs is safe and effective at early and long-term follow-up. According with these results, it could be proposed as the first line treatment in high risk patients if anatomically fit. Long term survival is reduced in the presence of preoperative COPD and postoperative renal function worsening.

Cross-clamp location affects short-term survival in patients undergoing open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair

INTRODUCTION

Open abdominal aortic aneurysm (oAAA) repair in the era of advanced endovascular aortic techniques is used in challenging anatomy. The impact of the location of the proximal aortic cross-clamp (suprarenal [SR] vs infrarenal [IR]) on outcomes remains to be determined. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of proximal aortic cross-clamp location on short-term and overall survival after oAAA repair in a contemporary series.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed comparing the outcomes of patients undergoing oAAA repair with SR and IR aortic cross-clamping using the Vascular Quality Initiative registry from January 2003 to September 2018. Our primary end point was short-term mortality.

RESULTS

There were 7601 patients who underwent oAAA repair. Their mean age was 69.3 ± 8.5 years and 5555 patients (73.1%) were male. The aortic cross-clamp location was IR in 4044 patients (53.2%). The SR group had increased maximum AAA diameter (58 mm vs 56 mm; P < .0001), hypertension (85.5% vs 82.0%; P < .0001), preoperative creatinine (1.11 vs 1.08; P = .001), and were more likely to be in American Society of Anesthesiologists class IV (37.4% vs 30.6%; P < .0001). Postoperative renal failure occurred significantly more often in the SR group (24.4 vs 11.4%; P < .0001). Short-term mortality was 2.7% in the IR group and 4.7% in the SR group (P < .0001). Kaplan-Meier survival estimates were 93.7% and 83.8% in the IR group and 90.9% and 81.2% in the SR group at 1 and 5 years, respectively (P = .007). Multivariable analysis demonstrated that SR cross-clamping was significantly associated with short-term mortality (hazard ratio, 1.38; 95% confidence interval, 1.07-1.78; P = .01); however, it did not affect overall survival (hazard ratio, 1.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.28; P = .06).

CONCLUSIONS

A SR cross-clamp location is associated with an increased short-term mortality in patients undergoing oAAA repair. Overall survival is not affected by a SR cross-clamp location.

Juxtarenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Results of Open Surgery in an Academic Center

BACKGROUND

The objective of the study is to report our experience with conventional surgery for juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms (JRAs) by evaluating incidence of acute renal failure and perioperative mortality. Secondary objectives are to evaluate general morbidity and the need for permanent postoperative dialysis and to assess the influence on long-term survival of preoperative risk factors and deterioration of perioperative renal function.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of 110 patients with JRA electively treated by open surgery between March 1992 and March 2018 was made. Data were obtained from clinical records, describing demographics, perioperative variables, and results. Acute kidney injury (AKI) was defined as 50% decrease in glomerular filtration rate or two-fold increase in serum creatinine. Multivariate analysis was performed by logistic regression to establish risk factors for renal failure. The influence of preoperative risk factors and deterioration of perioperative renal function on long-term survival was studied using Cox regression model. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the analysis.

RESULTS

110 consecutive patients were treated with an average age of 71 years, 82.7% male; 81% hypertensive and 41% active smokers. 46.3% had stage III or higher preoperative chronic kidney disease. Median diameter of the aneurysm was 5.7 cm. Interruption of bilateral renal flow was required in 73 patients (66.4%) and unilateral in 37 (33.6%). The average renal clamping time was 34.5 min. AKI occurred in 9 patients (8.2%). Two patients (1.8%) required postoperative dialysis, one of them permanent. Median hospital stay was 7 days. Thirty-three patients (30%) had at least one complication. Postoperative mortality was 2.7% (3 patients), two of them developed AKI. Multivariate analysis established a longer operative time and need for renal revascularization as independent risk factors for AKI. In the survival analysis, age, cerebrovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and perioperative AKI were identified as risk factors for long-term mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

JRA open surgical repair can be performed with low morbidity and mortality. Although transient acute renal dysfunction may be relatively frequent, the need for hemodialysis is low. Our study is a reference point to compare with endovascular repair.

The removal of all proximal aneurysmal aortic tissue does not affect anastomotic degeneration after open juxtarenal aortic aneurysm repair

OBJECTIVE

For the open treatment of juxtarenal aortic aneurysms (JRAAs), some argue for the removal of all proximal aneurysmal aortic tissue to prevent future degeneration, whereas others deem it unnecessary. This study sought to compare perioperative and long-term outcomes of two different approaches to treatment of JRAAs.

METHODS

Patients who underwent open JRAA repair from 2007 to 2015 at our institution were reviewed and stratified by operative technique: plication of the aneurysm cuff with graft sewn up to the renal arteries (PLI) vs a beveled anastomosis with left renal artery bypass (LRB). Patients who underwent additional mesenteric bypasses were excluded. Primary outcomes included death, anastomotic degeneration, and decline in renal function. Univariate and Kaplan-Meier analyses were performed.

RESULTS

There were 199 patients identified, 56% PLI (n = 112) and 44% LRB (n = 87). The majority were male (68%), white (89%), and smokers (58%). Mean age was 71.5 ± 8.5 years. LRB patients were more likely to have chronic kidney disease (29% vs 13%; P = .01) and larger juxtarenal diameters (median, 25 mm vs 28 mm; P = .001). LRB patients had longer postoperative length of stay (median, 8 days vs 7 days; P = .003) and longer operative times (median, 4.7 hours vs 3.7 hours; P < .001). Overall 30-day mortality was 2% (n = 4), with no difference between cohorts. There were no differences in perioperative complications except for the development of acute kidney injury, which was more common in LRB patients (47% vs 23%; P < .001). During 3-year follow-up, there was no difference in anastomotic aneurysmal degeneration or sac growth. In the long term, LRB patients were more likely to develop an occluded left renal artery (20% vs 0%; P = .004) and right renal artery stenosis (29% vs 3%; P = .002). However, neither group was more likely to have a decline in renal function (PLI, 23%; LRB, 25%; P = .84). There was no difference in 5-year mortality (P = .72).

CONCLUSIONS

The more complex technique involving LRB was not protective against long-term anastomotic degeneration, decline in renal function, or mortality. In addition, LRB led to longer length of stay and operative times, with increased risk of perioperative acute kidney injury. In an era when fewer open aortic repairs are being performed, it is reasonable to consider the PLI technique in the treatment of JRAAs, particularly in patients with baseline chronic kidney disease.

Meta-analysis of fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair versus open surgical repair of juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms over the last 10 years

Background

Juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms pose a significant challenge whether managed endovascularly or by open surgery. Fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR) is now well established, but few studies have compared it with open surgical repair (OSR). The aim of this systematic review was to compare short‐ and long‐term outcomes of FEVAR and OSR for the management of juxtarenal aortic aneurysms.

Methods

A literature search was conducted of the Ovid Medline, EMBASE and PubMed databases. Reasons for exclusion were series with fewer than 20 patients, studies published before 2007 and those concerning ruptured aneurysms. Owing to variance in definitions, the terms ‘juxta/para/suprarenal’ were used; thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms were excluded. Primary outcomes were 30‐day/in‐hospital mortality and renal insufficiency. Secondary outcomes included major complication rates, rate of reintervention and rates of endoleak.

Results

Twenty‐seven studies were identified, involving 2974 patients. Study designs included 11 case series, 14 series within retrospective cohort studies, one case–control study and a single prospective non‐randomized trial. The pooled early postoperative mortality rate following FEVAR was 3·3 (95 per cent c.i. 2·0 to 5·0) per cent, compared with 4·2 (2·9 to 5·7) per cent after OSR. After FEVAR, the rate of postoperative renal insufficiency was 16·2 (10·4 to 23·0) per cent, compared with 23·8 (15·2 to 33·6) per cent after OSR. The major early complication rate following FEVAR was 23·1 (16·8 to 30·1) per cent versus 43·5 (34·4 to 52·8) per cent after OSR. The rate of late reintervention after FEVAR was higher than that after OSR: 11·1 (6·7 to 16·4) versus 2·0 (0·6 to 4·3) per cent respectively.

Conclusion

No significant difference was noted in 30‐day mortality; however, FEVAR was associated with significantly lower morbidity than OSR. Long‐term durability is a concern, with far higher reintervention rates after FEVAR.

Complex Repair of Juxtarenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm with an Anatomical Variant of the Renal Arteries

Hybrid repair involves both open and endovascular interventions. This technique has been increasingly used in treating complex aortic aneurysms as an alternative to conventional open repairs, mainly because of the avoidance of aortic cross-clamping and the associated increased ischemia time to the viscera. We report a hybrid repair of a juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm complicated by a nonstandard right renal artery originating just proximal to the aortic bifurcation in the setting of a nonfunctional left kidney.

Short- and Midterm Outcomes of Open Repair and Fenestrated Endografting of Pararenal Aortic Aneurysms in a Concurrent Propensity-Adjusted Comparison

Purpose: To compare outcomes of patients treated for pararenal aortic aneurysms using fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (fEVAR) vs open surgical repair (OSR) in 3 high-volume centers. Materials and Methods: A multicenter retrospective analysis was conducted of 200 pararenal abdominal aortic aneurysm patients electively treated with OSR (n=108) or fEVAR (n=92) from 1998 to 2015 at 3 tertiary institutions. Endpoints were 30-day morbidity and mortality, late reinterventions, visceral artery occlusion, and mortality. Analysis was conducted on the entire population and on a propensity score–matched population constructed on age, gender, coronary artery disease (CAD), and chronic renal failure. Results: In the total cohort, fEVAR patients were significantly (p<0.001) older and had higher frequencies of CAD (p<0.001) and previous stroke (p=0.003). OSR patients had higher risk of perioperative morbidity (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.09 to 5.71, p=0.033), specifically respiratory failure (OR 4.06, 95% CI 1.12 to 4.72, p=0.034). These findings were confirmed in the propensity-adjusted analysis, where cardiac complications were also higher after OSR (OR 12.8, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.21, p=0.02). No difference in perioperative mortality (2.2% in fEVAR vs 1.9% in OSR) was identified. Mean follow-up was 50 months (range 0–119). Four-year results showed higher survival (91.2% vs 69.3%, p=0.02) and freedom from reintervention (95.6% vs 77.8%, p=0.01) after OSR in the unmatched population, with a small but significant (p=0.021) difference in the risk of late visceral artery occlusion/stenosis after fEVAR. On propensity analysis, no differences in late survival were found between groups. Conclusion: fEVAR and OSR may afford similar early and midterm survival rates. Higher risks of perioperative systemic complications after OSR are counterbalanced by higher risks of late visceral vessel patency issues and need for reintervention after fEVAR. Both procedures are safe and effective in the long term in experienced centers, where patient evaluation should drive the treatment strategy.