Treatment indications for and outcome of endovascular repair of type B intramural aortic hematoma

Risk stratification of best medical therapy for acute uncomplicated type B intramural hematoma

OBJECTIVES

Best medical therapy (BMT) for acute uncomplicated type B intramural hematoma (TBIMH) is the current treatment guideline, but there is considerable controversy about subsequent clinical course and outcome, which may be associated with a significant failure rate. The purpose of this study was to identify potential risk factors for BMT failure and to develop a risk score to guide clinical decision making.

METHODS

Patients with acute uncomplicated TBIMH between 2011 January and 2020 December were retrospectively studied. Logistic regression was applied to univariately assess potential risk predictors, and multivariable model results were then used to formulate a simplified predictive model for BMT failure.

RESULTS

In a total of 61 patients, the overall rate of BMT failure was 57.4% (35/61), of which 48.6% (17/35) occurred within 28 days of onset. Logistic regression identified maximum descending aortic diameter (HR ​= ​1.99 CI ​= ​1.16-3.40, p ​= ​0.012), initial IMH thickness (HR ​= ​3.29, CI ​= ​1.28-8.46, p ​= ​0.013) and presence of focal contrast enhancement (HR ​= ​3.12, CI ​= ​1.49-6.54, p ​= ​0.003) as potential risk predictors of BMT failure. A risk score was calculated as follows: [Max DTA diameter (mm)∗0.6876 ​+ ​Max IMH thickness (mm)∗1.1918 ​+ ​PAU/ULP ∗1.1369]. Freedom from BMT failure at 1 year was 72% in patients with a risk score ​< ​4.12, compared with only 35.1% in those with a risk score ​≧ ​4.12.

CONCLUSIONS

In a substantial proportion of patients with acute uncomplicated TBIMH, initial BMT failed. Based on the three initial computed tomographic imaging variables, this risk score could help stratify patients at high or low risk for BMT failure and provided additional information for early intervention.

Five Year Results of Endovascular versus Medical Therapy in Acute Type B Aortic Intramural Haematoma: Meta-Analysis of Reconstructed Time to Event Data

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate outcomes in the follow up of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) vs. medical therapy in patients with acute type B aortic intramural haematoma (IMH).

DATA SOURCES

The following sources were searched for articles meeting the inclusion criteria and published by July 2023: PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL/CCTR (Cochrane Controlled Trials Register).

REVIEW METHODS

This systematic review with pooled meta-analysis of time to event data followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines, and its protocol was registered on the public platform PROSPERO (CRD42023456222). The following were analysed: overall survival (all cause mortality), aortic related mortality, and restricted mean survival time. Certainty of evidence was evaluated through the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) tool.

RESULTS

Eight studies met the eligibility criteria, including 1 015 patients (440 in the TEVAR group and 575 in the medical therapy group). All studies were observational, and the pooled cohort had a median follow up of 5.1 years. Compared with patients who received medical therapy alone, those who underwent TEVAR had a statistically significantly lower risk of all cause death (HR 0.44, 95% CI 0.30 - 0.65; p < .001; GRADE certainty: low), lower risk of aortic related death (HR 0.04, 95% CI 0.01 - 0.31; p = .002; GRADE certainty: low) and lifetime gain (restricted mean survival time was overall 201 days longer with TEVAR; p < .001).

CONCLUSION

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair may be associated with lower risk of all cause and aortic related death compared with medical therapy in patients with acute type B IMH; however, the underlying data are not strong enough to draw robust clinical conclusions. Randomised controlled trials with large sample sizes and longer follow up are warranted to elucidate this question.

The Role of Endovascular Repair Timing in Uncomplicated Acute Type B Intramural Hematoma Management

BACKGROUND

With favorable results of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in patients with uncomplicated acute type B intramural hematoma (uTBIMH), TEVAR is increasingly utilized in the management of patients with uTBIMH. However, optimal timing for intervention has not been decided. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of acute and delayed TEVAR in patients with uTBIMH.

METHODS

We included patients with uTBIMH who underwent TEVAR between October 2014 and December 2021. The participants were divided into the acute TEVAR (aTEVAR) and delayed TEVAR (dTEVAR) groups. We analyzed the total aortic diameter (TAD)/true lumen diameter (TLD) ratio on computed tomography angiography (CTA) and aortic-related adverse events and all-cause mortality (AREM).

RESULTS

We included 34 individuals with uTBIMH, among which 20 underwent aTEVAR and 14 underwent dTEVAR. We observed no significant differences in baseline characteristics between both groups. However, compared with the aTEVAR group, better aortic remodeling was achieved in the dTEVAR group before discharge (1.32 ± 0.11 vs. 1.21 ± 0.09, P = 0.005) and at the 1-year follow-up (1.18 ± 0.09 vs. 1.10 ± 0.04, P = 0.034). Although the 30-day and 1-year follow-up outcomes of AREM were not significantly different, the Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that AREM incidence in the dTEVAR group was significantly lower than that in the aTEVAR group (85.7% for dTEVAR vs. 65.0% for aTEVAR, log-rank P = 0.20). Moreover, subgroup analysis revealed a significant difference in the TAD/TLD ratio between the aTEVAR and dTEVAR groups in individuals without a focal intimal disruption (1.33 ± 0.11 vs. 1.17 ± 0.09, P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

For individuals with uTBIMH, delaying TEVAR by >7 days improved aortic remodeling and lowered the incidence of early AREM. Additionally, the absence of focal intimal disruption on preoperative CTA supports delayed intervention.

Impact of post-implantation syndrome on outcomes in acute type B aortic syndrome patients undergoing endovascular repair

Background: The aim of this study was to explore the impact of post-implantation syndrome (PIS) on prognosis outcomes in individuals with type B acute aortic syndrome (AAS) undergoing thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). Patients and methods: Data from type B AAS individuals who underwent TEVAR from January 2014 to April 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Study subjects were divided into PIS and non-PIS (nPIS) groups and postoperative clinical outcomes were analyzed. Results: Our study cohort of 74 individuals with type B AAS included 40 aortic dissection (AD), 30 intramural hematoma (IMH), 4 penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU). The incidence of PIS was 14.9%. No statistically significant differences were found in baseline characteristics. The left subclavian artery (LSCA) reconstruction was performed more frequently among the PIS group (45.5% vs 9.5%, p=.008). Major adverse events (MAE) tended to be more frequent in the PIS group, but the difference was not significant (27.3% vs 22.2%, p=.707). At 2-year follow-up, results were comparable between the two groups. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that PIS was not associated with a higher incidence of mortality, endoleak, new-onset AD, or stroke. A baseline neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) >10.3 was associated with greater incidence of MAE. In individuals with IMH, better aortic remodeling evaluated by lower total aortic diameter/true lumen diameter (TAD/TLD) was achieved in the nPIS group (1.23±0.10 vs 1.43±0.07, p<.001), and a TAD/TLD ratio >1.32 was associated with significantly more MAE. Cox multivariate regression analysis also showed that a postoperative TAD/TLD ratio >1.32 was an independent risk factor for MAE (OR, 11.36; 95% CI, 1.53-84.26; p=.017). Conclusions: PIS was associated with a trend toward a higher incidence of MAE after TEVAR. In individuals with IMH, a TAD/TLD ratio >1.32 was an independent predictor of postoperative MAE.

Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair versus Optimal Medical Treatment in Patients with Type B Intramural Hematoma: A Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

We intended to study the effect of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and optimal medical treatment (OMT) on type B intramural hematoma (BIMH).

METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMbase, Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases that compared TEVAR and OMT in patients with BIMH. Two authors independently assessed the risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The rate ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval were used to calculate the outcome. The primary endpoints were aortic-related death and regression/resolution. Secondary endpoints were all-cause death, progression to dissection, and secondary intervention.

RESULTS

Eight observational studies were included in the analysis. TEVAR reduced aortic-related death (RR 0.22, 95% CI 0.08-0.56, P = 0.002, I² = 24%) and promoted hematoma regression/resolution (RR 1.48, 95% CI 1.05-2.10, P <0.05, I² = 71%) compared to OMT. Moreover, TEVAR was associated with a reduction in progression to dissection (RR 0.32, 95% CI 0.13-0.81, P <0.02, I² = 39%) and secondary intervention (RR 0.18, 95% CI 0.09-0.37, P <0.00001, I² = 38%) compared to OMT. However, all-cause death has no significant difference between the two groups (RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.17-1.19, P = 0.11, I² = 58%).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this meta-analysis suggested that TEVAR is an effective treatment for BIMH, which can delay the progression of intramural hematoma and promotes regression/resolution. More research about indications of TEVAR is still needed.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of Stanford type B aortic intramural hematoma: A single centre experience

Objective

To compare the clinical characteristics of Stanford type B aortic intramural hematoma (IMH) and Stanford type B aortic dissection (AD), and to identify the differences between thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and medical management (MM) in the Stanford type B IMH patients.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted in patients treated between January 2015 and December 2016. The clinical characteristics and CT images of patients with type B IMH and type B AD were compared, and the clinical characteristics and CT images of patients in the type B IMH group who were treated with TEVAR and MM were compared.

Results

A total of 176 patients were included in this study, including 62 patients of type B IMH and 114 patients of type B AD. Five patients died in the IMH group and three in the AD group. The proximal hematoma or entry tear in both groups was mainly located in the descending aorta, and the proportion of the iliac artery involved in the AD group was significantly higher than that in the IMH group (31.6% vs. 8.1% P < 0.05). There were 50 MM patients and 12 TEVAR patients in the IMH group. No death occurred in the TEVAR group, while five patients in the MM group died. Seven patients in the MM group had disease progression vs. 12 in the TEVAR group (P < 0.05). The patients in the TEVAR group had more intima lesions than those in the MM group (83.3% vs. 30.0%, P < 0.05). TEVAR group involved more iliac artery hematoma than MM group (33.3% vs. 2.0%, P < 0.05). The maximum thickness of hematoma in TEVAR group was 14.9 ± 3.4 mm, which was significantly larger than that of MM group (10.2 ± 2.8 mm) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

In the diagnosis of IMH, patients' symptoms and high-risk signs of CTA should be paid attention to. TEVAR therapy should be actively considered on the basis of effective medical management when there are intima lesions (ULP/PAU), increased aortic diameter and hematoma thickness, extensive hematoma involvement, and pleural effusion.

Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair for Aberrant Subclavian Artery and Stanford Type B Aortic Intramural Hematoma

Objectives

To evaluate the in-hospital and later outcomes of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for type B intramural hematoma (TBIMH) combined with an aberrant subclavian artery (aSCA).

Methods

In the period from January 2014 to December 2020, 12 patients diagnosed with TBIMH combined with aSCA and treated by TEVAR were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study, including 11 patients with the aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA) and 1 with an aberrant left subclavian artery (ALSA). A handmade fenestrated stent-graft or chimney stent or hybrid repair was performed when the proximal landing zone was not enough.

Results

The mean age of all the patients was 59.2 ± 7.6 years, and 66.7% of patients were men. There were 4 patients with Kommerell's diverticulum (KD). The procedures in all 12 patients were technically successful. There was one case each of postoperative delirium, renal impairment, and type IV endoleak after TEVAR. During follow-up, 1 patient died of acute pancreatitis 7 months after TEVAR. The overall survival at 1, 3, and 5 years for the patients was 90.9, 90.9, and 90.9%, respectively. KD was excluded in 2 patients, and the handmade fenestrated stent-graft was applied in the other 2 patients to preserve the blood flow of the aSCA. No neurological complications developed and no progression of KD was observed during the follow-up.

Conclusion

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair for patients with aSCA and TBIMH is promising. When KD was combined, we could exclude KD or preserve the blood flow of aSCA with regular follow-up for the diverticulum according to the size of the KD.

Acute aortic syndromes: a review of what we know and future considerations

Acute aortic syndromes represent a spectrum of life-threatening aortic pathologies. Prompt diagnosis and proper management of these syndromes are important in reducing overall mortality and morbidity, which remains high. Acute aortic dissections represent most of these aortic wall pathologies, but intramural haematomas and penetrating atherosclerotic ulcers have been increasingly diagnosed. Type A dissections require prompt surgical treatment, with endovascular options on the horizon. Type B dissections can be complicated or uncomplicated, and treatment is determined based on this designation. Complicated Type B dissections require prompt repair with thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) becoming the preferred method. Uncomplicated Type B dissections require medical management, but early TEVAR in the subacute setting is becoming more prominent. Proper surveillance for an uncomplicated Type B dissection is crucial in detecting aortic degeneration and need for intervention. Intramural haematomas and penetrating atherosclerotic ulcers are managed similarly to aortic dissections, but more research is needed to determine the proper management algorithms. Multi-disciplinary aortic programmes have been shown to improve patient outcomes and are necessary in optimizing long-term follow-up.

Endovascular Repair of Complicated Type B Aortic Intramural Haematoma: A Single Centre Long Term Experience

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in the treatment of patients with complicated type B aortic intramural haematoma (IMH).

METHODS

A retrospective observational study of patients treated between January 2002 and December 2017 was performed. Complicated type B IMH was defined as persistent pain, rapid dilatation, presence of ulcer-like projections (ULPs), haemothorax, and other signs of (impending) rupture. Thirty day results and long term follow up outcomes were reported.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients were included for analysis (mean age 68 ± 8 years, 36% male). The thirty day mortality rate was 5%, stroke rate 10%, and re-intervention rate 3%. The median follow up duration was 49 months (25th - 75th percentile: 2 - 96 months). At 10 years, estimated freedom from all cause mortality was 66 ± 9%. During follow up, nine re-interventions were performed, leading to a 10 year estimated freedom from re-intervention rate of 72 ± 8%. Estimated freedom from aortic growth at 10 years was 85 ± 9%.

CONCLUSION

Complicated type B IMH can be treated effectively by TEVAR, thus preventing death from aortic rupture. However, severe early post-operative complications, most importantly stroke, are of concern. Long term outcomes are excellent, although re-interventions are not uncommon, either for progression of proximal or distal aortic disease or due to stent graft related complications.

IMPACT OF THORACIC ENDOVASCULAR AORTIC REPAIR TIMING ON AORTIC REMODELING IN ACUTE TYPE B AORTIC INTRAMURAL HEMATOMA

INTRODUCTION

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is increasingly utilized in the management of acute type B aortic intramural hematoma (TBIMH). Optimal timing for intervention has not been described. The aim of this study was to evaluate TEVAR timing on post-operative aortic remodeling.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed on patients who underwent TEVAR for TBIMH from January 2008 to September 2018. Imaging was reviewed pre- and postoperatively. Primary data points included true lumen diameter (TLD) and total aortic diameter (TAD) at the site of maximal pathology. Primary endpoint was aortic remodeling evidenced by a TAD/TLD ratio closest to 1.0. Secondary outcome was occurrence of aortic-related adverse events and mortality (AREM): aortic rupture, aortic-related death, progression to dissection or need for aortic re-intervention within 12 months. Patients undergoing emergent TEVAR (within 24 hours, 'eTEVAR') were compared to the remainder - delayed TEVAR ('dTEVAR').

RESULTS

We analyzed 71 patients that underwent TEVAR FOR TBIMH; 25 underwent emergent TEVAR and 46 patients underwent dTEVAR (median: 5.5 days, range: 2-120 days). There were no differences in demographics and comorbidities and patients did not differ in presenting IMH thickness (12.6±3.1 mm vs. 11.3±4.1 mm, p=0.186) nor presenting TAD/TLD ratio (1.535±0.471 vs. 1.525±0.397, p=0.928) for eTEVAR and dTEVAR groups, respectively. eTEVAR patients had larger average presenting maximal descending aortic (DTA) diameter (45.8±14.3 mm vs. 38.2±7.5 mm, p=0.018) and higher incidence of penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU) on presenting CT angiography (52.0% vs 21.7%, p=0.033). Thirty day mortality was 2/25 (8.0%) for eTEVAR and 2/45 (4.4%) for dTEVAR (p=0.602). Postoperative aortic remodeling was more complete in the dTEVAR group (1.23±0.12 vs. 1.33±0.15, p=0.004). Case-control matching (controlling for presenting DTA diameter and PAU) on 30 patients still showed better aortic remodeling in the dTEVAR group (1.125±0.100 vs 1.348±0.42, p<0.001). The incidence of AREM was higher in the eTEVAR - 6/25 (24.0%) - group compared to the dTEVAR group - 2/46 (4.3%). At 12 months, freedom from AREM was higher in the dTEVAR group (95.7% vs. 76.0%, p=0.011). Postoperative TAD/TLD ratio was the best predictor for late aortic-related adverse events (AUROC=0.825, p=0.003).

CONCLUSION

TEVAR for acute type B IMH within 24 hours of admission is associated with lower aortic remodeling and higher occurrence of late aortic related adverse events and mortality. Delaying TEVAR when clinically possible could improve aortic remodeling and aortic-related outcomes.

[Acute localized dissection of the descending thoracic aorta: A diagnostic trap]

Localized dissection of the descending thoracic aorta; class 3 of the classification proposed by the European Society of Cardiology; is a short and limited length dissection involving the descending thoracic aorta. It is a rare and unrecognized variant that poses a clinical and radiological diagnostic challenge. Indeed, it is manifested by an aspecific clinical profile represented by the acute aortic syndrome and characterized by a confused radiological aspect that entangled with the other differential diagnoses. We would like to emphasize the rarity of this uncommon pathology and the difficulty encountered in defining it based on a case treated in our department and a review of the literature.

Outcomes of uncomplicated Type B intramural hematoma patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to summarize the clinical presentations, therapeutic approaches, and outcomes of Type B intramural hematoma (IMHB) patients with and without Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).

METHODS

Patients with uncomplicated IMHBs were included between January 2016 and January 2018 and divided into two groups according to whether or not they had DM. We also assessed the potential diagnostic value of serum matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) level and the association of it with the disease progression of uncomplicated IMHB patients with and without DM.

RESULTS

A total of 149 patients were included (DM group [n = 60] and non-DM group [n = 89]). Patients in the non-DM group underwent thoracic endovascular aortic repair treatment more frequently (12% vs 2%, p = .028) and had a higher reintervention rate during the follow-up (9 in 81 patients, 11% vs. 2%, p = .043). There were significant differences between the two groups regarding the aorta-related mortality rate during the acute phase (9% vs. 0%, p = .042) and the all-cause mortality rate (22% vs. 7%, p = .011). Ulcer-like projection (ULP) development (during the acute phase; hazard ratio [HR], 1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15-1.79, p = .005), C-reactive protein (CRP) levels (HR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.91-3.91, p = .003), and MMP-9 levels (HR, 15.77; 95% CI, 6.48-21.62, p < .001) were associated with an elevated risk for aorta-related mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

IMHBs with DM have a considerably better prognosis and serum MMP-9 level appear to be a potential biomarker to predict the disease progression. ULP development (during the acute phase) and CRP levels are also associated with an elevated risk for aorta-related mortality.

Outcomes of thoracic endovascular aortic repair in thoracic aortic aneurysm and penetrating aortic ulcer using the Conformable Gore TAG within and outside the instructions for use

OBJECTIVE

To describe the outcome of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in thoracic aortic aneurysm and penetrating aortic ulcer with respect to instructions for use status.

METHODS

Between October 2009 and September 2017, a total of 532 patients underwent TEVAR; of which 195 have been treated using the Conformable GORE® TAG® thoracic endoprosthesis (CTAG). Fifty-six patients of this cohort underwent TEVAR for thoracic aortic aneurysm/penetrating aortic ulcer using the CTAG. Depending on the preoperative computed tomography angiography findings, patients were classified as inside or outside the device's instructions for use. All inside instruction for use patients underwent postoperative reclassification regarding the instructions for use status. Study endpoints included TEVAR-related reintervention, exclusion of the pathology (endoleak type I/III), TEVAR-related mortality, and graft-related serious adverse events. The median duration of follow-up was 29.7 months (range: 0-109.4 months).

RESULTS

Of the 56 patients, 17 were primarily classified as outside instruction for use, and in additional 13 patients, TEVAR was performed outside instruction for use, leading to 30 outside instruction for use patients (53.6%). Twenty-six patients (46.4%) were treated inside instruction for use. Reintervention-free survival was lower in outside instruction for use patients (P = 0.016) with a hazard ratio of 9.74 (confidence interval 1.2-80.2; P = 0.034) for TEVAR-related reintervention. With respect to endoleak type I/III, relevant difference was detected between inside/outside instruction for use status (P = 0.012). The serious adverse event rate was 30.4%, mainly in outside instruction for use patients (P = 0.004). Logistic regression analysis indicated an association between graft-related serious adverse event/instructions for use status (odds ratio 6.11; confidence interval 1.6-30.06; P = 0.012). In-hospital death was seen more frequently in outside instruction for use patients (P = 0.12) as was procedure-related death (log-rank test: P = 0.21).

CONCLUSION

TEVAR for thoracic aortic aneurysm/penetrating aortic ulcer is frequently performed outside instruction for use despite preoperative inside instruction for use eligibility, leading to important consequences for technical/clinical outcome. Instructions for use adherence in TEVAR should be of interest for further large-scale studies.

Preliminary results of spot-stent grafting in Stanford type B aortic dissection and intramural haematoma

OBJECTIVES

METHODS

Patients undergoing thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for acute/subacute aortic dissection Stanford type B/intramural haematoma Stanford type B between 1997 and 2018 were identified from a prospectively maintained institutional database. In a total of 183 cases, 22 patients (7 women; median age 62 years; range 35–79 years) received SSG. The primary study end point was technical success. The primary morphological end point was false lumen thrombosis/aortic remodelling. Secondary end points were TEVAR-related mortality/morbidity and reinterventions. The median follow-up was 28.5 months (5 days–15.6 years).

RESULTS

The primary technical success rate was 100% (22/22). During follow-up, false lumen thrombosis was seen in 21 patients (95.5%) at a median of 6 days (0 days to 2.7 years) after the index procedure (limited/extended false lumen thrombosis: n = 9 vs 12). Aortic remodelling was achieved in 15 of 22 patients (68.2%) at a median of 360 days (3 days to 7.2 years). Limited/extended remodelling was observed in 8/15 and 7/15, respectively. Retrograde dissection or stent graft-induced new entry was not observed. No stroke or spinal cord injury occurred. Reinterventions were performed in 4/22 cases. The in-hospital mortality and 30-day mortality were 0%. Overall mortality during the follow-up period was 22.7% (5/22).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows favourable technical and morphological results for SSG in selected patients with acute/subacute aortic dissection Stanford type B/intramural haematoma Stanford type B. Patient allocation to SSG remains individual. Prospective large-scale long-term data may allow refinement of the application.

Prognostic value of clinical and morphologic findings in patients with type B aortic intramural hematoma

Background

Aortic intramural hematoma (IMH) is a subset of acute aortic syndrome, and its prognosis may differ between races. This study aimed to study the prognosis of Chinese type B IMH patients and to find out risk factors.

Methods

A total of 71 type B IMH patients with or without penetrating atherosclerosis ulcer (PAU) administrated in our center between September 2013 and October 2017 were retrospectively studied. Both clinical and imaging data were collected and analyzed. The primary end point was aorta-related death, and the secondary end point was progression, which was defined as enlargement of aorta, increased aortic wall thickness, and aortic dissection or aneurysm formation. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression analysis were used for prognostic analysis.

Results

Among these 71 patients, 21 had simple type B IMH, when 50 had type B IMH in association with PAU. Twenty-five patients received optimal medical therapy (OMT) alone, while 46 patients received surgery and OMT. The mean follow-up time was 27.5 ± 13.5 months. For type B IMH patients, association with PAU indicated poor prognosis and required more intensive management (HR = 16.68, 1.96~141.87), while maximum aortic diameter (MAD) was an independent risk factor (HR = 1.096, 1.016~1.182). For patients with PAU-IMH, MAD was an independent risk factor (HR = 1.04, 1.021~1.194), while surgical treatment was independent protective factor (HR = 0.172, 0.042~0.696).

Conclusion

Association with PAU and MAD were independent risk factors for type B IMH patients. Surgery may improve the outcomes for type B IMH in association with PAU.

The evolution of treatments for uncomplicated type B intramural hematoma patients

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate whether uncomplicated type B intramural hematoma (IMHB) patients with known evolution predictors could benefit from more aggressive therapy.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis was performed in uncomplicated IMHB patients with evolution predictors between January 2001 and August 2018. Cox proportional hazard models were constructed to identify the specific factors associated with aorta-related mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 226 uncomplicated acute IMHB patients with evolution predictors were included. The conventional therapy group included 187 patients, and the other 39 patients received the more aggressive therapy. Aorta-related mortality in the first year was higher in the conventional therapy group than in the more aggressive therapy group (15% vs 2.5%, P = .035), and more patients died after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) (13 of 27 patients, 48.1% vs 2.5%, P < .001). The more aggressive therapy group had a higher rate of hematoma resolution than the conventional therapy group (81.6% vs 62.2%, P = .024), a lower possibility of hematoma worsening (2.6% vs 17.0%, P = .021), and a lower reintervention rate (0% vs 11.9%, P = .028). Cox regression analysis revealed that a higher rate of focal intimal disruption (FID) development (hazard ratio [HR], 3.99; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.16-11.46, P = .010), and a higher C-reactive protein (CRP) level (HR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.16-1.40, P < .001) were associated with increased aorta-related mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

More aggressive therapy for uncomplicated IMHB patients with evolution predictors during the acute phase may result in better clinical outcomes. A higher rate of FID development and a higher CRP level are associated with increased aorta-related mortality.

Is the Natural Anatomical Evolution of Type B Intramural Hematomas Reliable to Identify the Patients at Risk of Aneurysmal Progression?

BACKGROUND

The natural history of type B intramural hematomas is little-known. Aneurysmal progression or an aortic dissection occurs in 15 to 20% of the cases. The study of the natural anatomical evolution could help identify the patients at risk of unfavorable evolution.

METHODS

All the patients monitored for a type B intramural hematoma between 2009 and 2018 were included in this monocentric retrospective study. Computed tomography angiography centerline measurement of diameters was obtained in various points of aortic segmentation on day (D) 0 and at one month (M1). Aortic volumes (lumen, intramural hematoma, and total volume) were calculated. The circulating volume was calculated using the volume rendering method. The volume of the intramural hematoma was measured using a manual section-by-section segmentation tool, and the total volume was obtained by summing up the two preceding volumes. Two groups of patients were compared: group 1 (favorable anatomical evolution) and group 2 (unfavorable anatomical evolution).

RESULTS

Between January 2008 and August 2018, 25 patients were managed for a type B intramural hematoma in our center. After an average follow-up of 15.5 months (1-52), 13 patients (52%) presented a favorable evolution and 12 (48%) an unfavorable evolution. At M1, a significant increase of the luminal diameters (37 mm vs. 32 mm; P < 0.01) and a significant reduction in the longitudinal extension (19 mm vs. 26 mm; P < 0.01) were observed. The maximum aortic diameter evolved significantly between D0 and M1 in the unfavorable evolution group (49 mm vs. 44 mm, respectively; P = 0.038). Such a difference was not found in the favorable evolution group (37.4 vs. 37.1, respectively; P = 0.552). An overall significant reduction in the total aortic volume (166 cm³ vs. 219 cm³; P < 0.01), the circulating volume (124 cm³ vs. 145 cm³; P = 0,026), and the volume of the hematoma (42 cm³ vs. 39 cm³; P < 0.01) was observed. The circulating volume decreased significantly between D0 and M1 in the favorable evolution group (110 cm³ vs. 135 cm³; P = 0.05), whereas no difference was noted in the unfavorable group (142 cm³ vs, 157 cm³; P = 0.24).

CONCLUSIONS

The progression of the maximum aortic diameter and of the circulating volume after one month of follow-up could be predictive factors of the poor long-term evolution of type B intramural hematomas.

Conservative Management of Uncomplicated Acute Type B Intramural Hematoma of the Aorta Not Always Is the Right Solution

The natural course of intramural hematoma (IMH) of the aorta remains unpredictable and despite an increasing amount of literature reports its treatment is still debatable. IMH typically is diagnosed by computed tomography that has permitted to identify specific images whose onset, in uncomplicated cases, appears to be associated to a dismal prognosis. We report on a case series of acute uncomplicated type B IMH in which early detection of such findings, given the expected poor prognosis associated to the aorta-related mortality, suggests the need to shift toward an aggressive endovascular aortic repair in this subset of patients.

Endovascular versus medical management of type B intramural hematoma: a meta-analysis

Background

Aortic intramural hematoma constitutes one of the three classifications of acute aortic syndrome (AAS). Type B intramural hematoma (IMH-B) is localized to the descending thoracic aorta and can be managed through medical, endovascular or surgical means. Data comparing contemporary management with thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) versus traditional medical management (MM) is sparse and only moderate strength recommendations for TEVAR are provided in guidelines. This meta-analysis aimed to pool available data from comparative studies between TEVAR and MM and examine differences in outcomes.

Methods

Literature search of electronic medical databases was conducted to identify studies comparing TEVAR and MM for management of IMH-B. Data extraction from studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria was performed by two authors and meta-analysis using a random-effects model applied to pool baseline data and examine risk ratios (RR) for management outcomes.

Results

Of the initial 2,349 studies, nine studies were identified for analysis. There were 161 TEVAR patients and 166 who were medically managed. The mean age of the cohort was 62.2 years [95% confidence interval (CI): 55.8-68.7 years]. Patients with complicating features of IMH-B at presentation were more likely to appear in the TEVAR group, with more penetrating atheromatous ulcer (PAU) [risk difference (RD), 0.565, 95% CI: 0.240-0.889, P=0.001], ulcer-like projection (ULP) (RD 0.240, 95% CI: 0.965-0.384, P=0.001), and greater IMH size (mean difference, MD 5.47 mm, 95% CI: 0.320-10.6, P=0.037). There was no statistical difference between TEVAR and MM for the primary endpoints of aortic-related death (RR 0.535, 95% CI: 0.191-1.5, P=0.234) or IMH-B regression (RR 1.25, 95% CI: 0.859-1.81, P=0.246). Of the secondary endpoints, TEVAR had both significantly less dissection during follow-up (RR 0.295, 95% CI: 0.0881-0.989, P=0.048) and less rupture during follow-up (RR 0.206, 95% CI: 0.0462-0.921, P=0.039).

Conclusions

A small number of series comparing TEVAR and MM for management of IMH-B are available and random-effects meta-analysis did not reveal any statistically significant difference between treatments for aortic related death or IMH-B regression at a mean follow-up of 37 months. TEVAR was found to be associated with lower risk of dissection and lower risk of rupture during follow-up. Baseline data meta-analysis showed patients with complicating features of PAU, ULP, and larger IMH size were more likely to be managed with TEVAR.

Certain aortic geometries and hemodynamics are associated with FID development and impact the evolution of uncomplicated type B intramural hematoma during the acute phase

OBJECTIVES

It is difficult to predict the evolution of uncomplicated type B intramural hematoma (IMHB) with a focal intimal disruption (FID) in the acute phase. The aims of this study were to investigate the predictors of FIDs and summarize the risk factors for the evolution of uncomplicated IMHB in the acute phase.

METHODS

Eighty-six patients with uncomplicated IMHB were included and were divided according to the development of an FID during the acute phase: the FID group (n = 32) and the no-FID group (n = 54). Geometric measurements and computed fluid dynamic calculations were based on a computed tomography scan performed on admission. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the predictors of FID development.

RESULTS

Thirty-two (37%) patients developed an FID. Patients with an FID had higher C-reactive protein levels (18.6 ± 2.3 vs 8.1 ± 0.2 mg/dL, P < 0.001) and white blood cell counts (10.3 ± 2.1 vs 7.5 ± 1.7 10⁹ /L, P < 0.001). The no-FID group had lower occurrences of disease progression (15% vs 64%, P < 0.001) and aorta-related mortality (6% vs 25%, P = 0.016). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated a significant risk for the occurrence of an FID with a larger maximum aortic diameter (OR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.05-1.73, P = 0.020), thicker hematoma (OR, 2.20; 95% CI, 1.40-3.48, P = 0.001), and higher oscillatory shear index (per 0.01 unit, OR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.21-2.49, P = 0.003). The aorta-related mortality during the acute phase was 25% (n = 8).

CONCLUSIONS

Certain aortic conditions, including ta larger aortic diameter, thicker hematoma and higher oscillatory shear stress, are associated with the FID development and result in worse clinical outcomes.

Proposed Magnetic Resonance Imaging Criteria to Diagnose Intramural Haematoma and to Predict Aortic Healing after Acute Type B Aortic Syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Type B acute aortic syndrome (AAS) encompasses aortic dissection (AD) and intramural haematoma (IMH), the diagnosis, evolution, and treatment of which are subject to controversies. The aim of this pilot investigation was to assess the ability of specific magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) criteria to differentiate AD from IMH and predict optimal aortic remodeling following AAS.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, all patients presenting between 2008 and 2015 with type B AAS, who had diagnostic MRI following admission, were included. Three MRI criteria were proposed to identify IMH: (i) no visualised entry tear; (ii) no contrast uptake in the aortic lesion on the first pass angiographic run; (iii) no contrast uptake in the aortic lesion on the equilibrium phase T1 sequence. On each patient's diagnostic and follow up imaging studies, the volume of (i) false lumen/IMH, (ii) total aorta, and (iii) true lumen were calculated. Using the Wilcoxon signed rank test, the evolution of these volumes according to the presence or absence of the aforementioned criteria were compared.

RESULTS

Of 39 patients, in seven all MRI criteria were positive (group IMH) and 32 had one or more negative criteria (group AD). Patients with IMH and AD were similar with respect to sex, age, and delay between onset of symptoms and diagnostic and follow up imaging studies. Eighteen patients had a follow up imaging study after a mean period of 11.2 months: six in the IMH group and 12 in the AD group. Lesion volume decrease and relative true lumen volume increase were statistically significant in group IMH (p = .046 and p = .046, respectively), whereas there was a statistically significant increase of lesion volume (p = .008) in the AD group.

CONCLUSION

This pilot study proposed three simple MRI criteria to differentiate between AD and IMH. Once prospectively and clinically validated, this could have substantial therapeutic benefits as IMH are likely to heal spontaneously.

Long-term follow-up and clinical implications in Chinese patients with aortic intramural hematomas

BACKGROUND

Intramural hematomas (IMHs) are reported to dynamically evolve into different clinical outcomes ranging from regression to aortic rupture, but no practice guidelines are available in China.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the evolution of IMHs after long-term follow-up and to identify the predictive factors of IMH outcomes in the Chinese population.

METHODS

A total of 123 IMH patients with clinical and imaging follow-up data were retrospectively studied. The primary endpoints were aortic disease-related death, aortic dissection, penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU), thickening of the aortic hematoma and aortic complications requiring surgical or endovascular treatment.

RESULTS

All 123 IMH patients were monitored clinically. The follow-up duration ranged from 1.4 to 107 months (median, 20 months). Thirty-nine patients had type A IMH, and 84 had type B. The multivariate analysis showed that a baseline MAD ≥ 44.75 mm (2.9% vs 61.4%, P < 0.001) and acute PAUs (2.9% vs 34.1%, P = 0.008) were independent predictors of aorta-related events.

CONCLUSIONS

Medication and short-term imaging are recommended for Chinese IMH patients with a hematoma thickness < 10.45 mm and a baseline MAD < 44.75 mm. Rigorous medical observation should also be performed during the acute phase of IMH.

Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair versus Best Medical Treatment for High-Risk Type B Intramural Hematoma: A Systematic Review of Clinical Studies

BACKGROUND

To date, thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for type B aortic dissection is favorable, but TEVAR for type B intramural hematoma (IMH) remains uncertain. There are numerous clinical (e.g., refractory pain) and radiologic (e.g., IMH thickness) factors that are reported to be associated with IMH progression, challenging the treatment for high-risk type B IMH with high risk factors in clinical practice.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to perform a systematic review of clinical studies to investigate outcomes of TEVAR + best medical treatment (BMT) and BMT in the treatment of high-risk type B IMH.

METHODS

The online databases of PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CNKI, Google Scholar, and Cochrane as well as some journals majoring in endovascular surgery and interventional therapy were searched on September 1, 2017. Observational studies that reported the effect of TEVAR and BMT on type B IMH were included. Two independent reviewers performed methodological assessment and data extraction. Random and fixed effects models were used to calculate pooled effect size estimates. A sensitivity analysis was also carried out.

RESULTS

In all 6 included studies, the total number of patients with type B IMH was 237 and 123 patients received TEVAR + BMT. There was a significantly higher IMH regression rate among patients undergoing TEVAR + BMT compared with BMT (odds ratios [OR] 10.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.43-29.4). There were a significantly lower IMH progress rate and aortic-related death rate among patients undergoing TEVAR + BMT compared with BMT (OR 0.239, 95% CI 0.075-0.758; OR 0.248, 95% CI 0.085-0.725). When the study of Ye K et al. was excluded, the results showed no statistically significant differences.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined data from the present study demonstrate that TEVAR + BMT results in significantly higher IMH regression rate, lower IMH progression, and lower aortic-related death rate compared with BMT in high-risk type B IMH patients.

Endovascular treatment of genetically linked aortic diseases

Background

The most important structural proteins of the vascular wall are collagen and elastin. Genetically linked connective tissue diseases lead to degeneration, aneurysm formation and spontaneous dissection or rupture of arteries. The most well-known are Marfan syndrome, vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (type IV), Loeys-Dietz syndrome and familial aortic aneurysms and dissections.

Objective

This review article addresses the current status of endovascular treatment options for important connective tissue diseases.

Material and methods

Evaluation of currently available randomized studies and registry data.

Results

The treatment of choice for patients that are mostly affected at a young age is primarily conservative or open repair. There is only limited evidence for endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) of abdominal aneurysms or thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR).

Conclusion

The progression of the disease with dilatation leads to secondary endoleaks and high reintervention rates with uncertain long-term results. For this reason, there is currently consensus that EVAR and TEVAR should be limited to justified exceptional cases and emergency situations in patients with genetically linked aortic diseases.