Does the presence of an iliac aneurysm affect outcome of endoluminal AAA repair? An analysis of 336 cases

Outcomes of "Anterior Versus Posterior Divisional Branches of the Hypogastric Artery as Distal Landing Zone for Iliac Branch Devices": The International Multicentric R3OYAL Registry

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this multicentric registry was to assess the outcomes of "anteRior versus posteRior divisional bRanches Of the hYpogastric artery as distAl landing zone for iLiac branch devices (R3OYAL)."

METHODS

The main exposure of interest for the purpose of this study was the internal iliac artery (IIA) divisional branch (anterior vs posterior) that was used as distal landing zone. Early endpoints included technical success and adverse events. Late endpoints included survival, primary/secondary IIA patency, and IIA branch instability.

RESULTS

A total of 171 patients were included in the study, of which 50 received bilateral implantation of iliac branch devices (IBDs). This resulted in a total of 221 incorporated IIAs included in the final analysis, of which 40 were anterior divisional branches and 181 were posterior divisional branches. Technical success was high in both groups (anterior division: 98% vs posterior division: 100%, P = .18). Occurrence of any adverse event was noted in 14% of patients in both groups (P = 1.0). The overall rate of freedom from the composite IBD branch instability did not show significant differences between patients receiving distal landing in the anterior or posterior division of the IIA at 3 years (79% vs 87%, log-rank test = .215). The 3-year estimates of IBD patency were significantly lower in patients who received distal landing in the anterior divisional branch than those who received distal landing in the posterior divisional branch (primary patency: 81% vs 96%, log-rank test = .009; secondary patency: 81% vs 97%, log-rank test < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of the anterior or posterior divisional branches of the IIA as distal landing zone for IBD implantation shows comparable profiles in terms of immediate technical success, perioperative safety, and side-branch instability up to 3 years. However, IBD patency at 3 years was higher when the distal landing zone was achieved within the posterior divisional branch of the IIA.

CLINICAL IMPACT

The results from this large multicentric registry confirm that use of the anterior or posterior divisional branches of the internal iliac artery (IIA) as distal landing zone for implantation of iliac branch devices (IBD) shows comparable profiles of safety and feasibility, thereby allowing to extend the indications for endovascular repair of aorto-iliac aneurysms to cases with unsuitable anatomy within the IIA main trunk. Although mid-term rates of device durability and branch instability seem to be similar, the rates of primary and secondary IBD patency at three years was favored when the distal landing zone was achieved in the posterior divisional branch of the IIA.

Differences in Cardiac-Pulsatility-Induced Displacement and Geometry Changes between the Cook ZBIS and Gore IBE: Postoperative Comparison Using ECG-Gated CTA Scans

To what extent the stentgraft design of iliac branch devices (IBDs) relates to dynamic deformation is currently unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to quantify and compare displacement and geometry changes during the cardiac cycle of two common IBDs. This paper presents a two-center trial with patients treated with a Zenith bifurcated iliac side (ZBIS) or Gore iliac branch endoprosthesis (IBE). All patients underwent a retrospective electrocardiogram (ECG)-gated computed tomographic angiography (CTA) during follow-up. Cardiac-pulsatility-induced displacement was quantified for the following locations: (neo) bifurcation of the aorta, IBD flow divider, distal markers of the internal iliac artery (IIA) component and first IIA bifurcation. Geometrical parameters (length, tortuosity index, curvature and torsion) were quantified over centerlines. Displacement was more pronounced for the IBE than the ZBIS, e.g., craniocaudal displacement of 0.91 mm (0.91-1.13 mm) vs. 0.57 mm (0.40-0.75 mm, p = 0.004), respectively. The IBDs demonstrated similar geometrical parameters in the neo-common iliac artery and distal IIA, except for the larger dynamic curvature and torsion of the distal IIA in IBEs. The IBEs showed more dynamic length and curvature change compared to the ZBIS in the stented IIA. The IIA trajectory showed more pronounced deformation during the cardiac cycle after placement of an IBE than a ZBIS, suggesting the IBE is more conformable than the ZBIS.

Influence of Internal Iliac Artery Embolization during Endovascular Aortic Repair Regarding Postoperative Sarcopenia and Midterm Survival

BACKGROUND

Postoperative sarcopenia is a risk factor for postoperative mortality. Internal iliac artery embolization (IIAE) during endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) has ischemic effects on pelvic skeletal muscles because IIAE causes buttock claudication. The long-term effects of IIAE on pelvic skeletal muscle, however, have not been well investigated. We hypothesized that IIAE after EVAR induces a decrease in skeletal muscle, which leads to postoperative sarcopenia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms who underwent EVAR from 2009 to 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Skeletal muscle areas (SMAs) at the third lumbar level and the mid-femoral level were measured on transverse computed tomographic images. Postoperative sarcopenia was defined as a >10% decrease in the L3 SMA as established in a previous study. We assessed the association between postoperative sarcopenia and IIAE.

RESULTS

Altogether, 102 eligible patients who underwent elective EVAR comprised the study group. The L3 SMA at the 3-year follow-up evaluation was significantly smaller in patients with than without IIAE (P < 0.05). The SMAs of the psoas, lumbar, and thigh muscles were significantly smaller on the IIAE than non-IIAE side (P < 0.05). IIAE was thus revealed as an independent risk factor for postoperative sarcopenia (hazard ratio, 4.69; P = 0.008). In addition, patients who developed postoperative sarcopenia had a lower overall survival rate than those without postoperative sarcopenia (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

IIAE during EVAR is a risk factor for postoperative sarcopenia, which is in turn associated with mortality. Hence, we should preserve the internal iliac artery whenever possible. Alternatively, if IIAE is deemed necessary, we should postoperatively institute protocols to prevent sarcopenia from developing.

The Effect of Manufacturer's Instructions for Use Compliance on Cook ZBIS Iliac-Branched Endograft Long-Term Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines indicate iliac-branched endografts (IBDs) as the ideal means to preserve pelvic perfusion during endovascular aortic repair. Because patient vascular anatomy represents the main limitation to extensive use of these devices, off-label application may be considered to expand the number of patients being treated. The aim of this study is to evaluate long-term outcomes obtained using the Cook ZBIS endograft in the treatment of aortoiliac aneurysms as per or outside manufacturer's instruction for use (IFU).

METHODS

Data from all patients who underwent IBD implant in a single center were reviewed. Study population was divided into two subgroups: Group I treated as per manufacturer's IFU and group II treated outside IFU.

RESULTS

During the study period (2008-2018), 119 patients were treated with 130 IBDs. Eighty-six patients were treated as per IFU (group I) and 44 outside IFU (group II). Overall technical success was 99.2%. Mean follow-up was of 63.5 ± 38.3 months for group I and 58.3 ± 35.9 months for group II (P = 0.45). Freedom from reintervention at ten years was 79.8% in group I and 69.6% in group II (P = 0.29). Freedom from IBD-related reintervention rate was 98.7% and 95.3% in groups I and II, respectively (P = 0.240). Iliac-branched module thrombosis occurred significantly more in patients treated outside IFU with 4 cases in group I (4.7%) and 10 cases in group II (22.7%), (P = 0.005). Cox regression analysis identified hypogastric artery aneurysm as the only independent predictor for both IBD thrombosis and hypogastric artery occlusion during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

When used by an experienced team, Cook IBDs are safe and effective in the treatment of aortoiliac aneurysms both inside and outside IFU. Anyway a lower target hypogastric patency rate should be expected when treating patients with hypogastric aneurysms.

Common Iliac Artery Aneurysm Repair with Hypogastric Preservation via Balloon-Expandable Covered Stents Using the Eyelet Technique-Iliac Branched Devices Still Inappropriate in Many Patients

BACKGROUND

Common iliac artery aneurysms (CIAAs) are seen in 20-40% of patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms. Historically treated with sacrifice of the hypogastric artery, which can result in significant morbidity related to pelvic ischemia, new devices have made hypogastric artery preservation more feasible but are only applicable to a small subset of aneurysm anatomy. We sought to assess the safety and efficacy or a novel technique for hypogastric artery preservation applicable to a wider variety of patients with CIAAs.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of all patients with CIAAs treated with a novel endovascular technique at the UC San Diego Sulpizio Cardiovascular Center or the San Diego Veterans Affairs Hospital between March 2016 and December 2017. The endovascular technique involved stent placement in both the internal and external iliac arteries, with balloon expansion to minimize gutters between the endografts. Primary end points included technical success, limb patency, and presence of endoleaks (ELs).

RESULTS

A total of 14 limbs (12 patients) were treated for CIAAs with 100% technical success and limb patency at an average of 6.8 months of follow-up. No patients experienced type I or type III ELs or evidence of pelvic ischemia. Two patients required reintervention, and one patient died of causes unrelated to the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

This technique was performed with excellent short- and mid-term safety in patients with varying aneurysm anatomy. The high rates of technical success and low rate pelvic ischemia represent improvement over conventional techniques that sacrifice the hypogastric artery and warrant further testing in a larger patient series with longer term follow-up.

Is endovascular treatment of aorto-iliac aneurysms with simultaneous unilateral revascularization of internal iliac artery by branched iliac stentgraft sufficient?

AIMS

The coverage / occlusion of internal iliac artery (IIA) during endovascular treatment of aorto-iliac aneurysms (AIA) can be associated with risk of ischemic complications. To reduce these complications, unilateral or bilateral iliac branch device implantation (IBDI) has been reported. This study aims at evaluating the efficacy of simultaneous unilateral IBDI in the treatment of AIAs and comparing our results with literature.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From March 2010 to December 2019, 27 patients (25 men, 2 women, range 54-84 years) were treated for aorto-iliac/isolated common iliac aneurysms with simultaneous unilateral revascularization of IIA and surgical / endovascular occlusion of contralateral IIA. 27 iliac-branched devices were implanted in 27 patients. The results including ischemic complications were evaluated and compared with literature.

RESULTS

The technical success was 100% with no perioperative mortality and morbidity of 3.7%. Primary internal iliac branch patency at a median follow-up of 52 months (range 1-118 months) was 96.42%. Secondary endoleak was observed in 6 patients (Type 1a [1], Type 1b [1], Type II [4]) and inflammatory complication in 1 patient. The incidence of buttock claudication one year after the procedure was 11.1%. Except for buttock claudication no other ischemic complications occurred.

CONCLUSION

Unilateral flow preservation in the IIA territory using IBDI is associated with a lesser, but a certain risk of ischemic complications. Bilateral IBDI with bilateral flow preservation of IIAs increases the complexity, procedure -/ fluoroscopy times, contrast agent volume and cost, however, may further reduce these ischemic complications.

Importance of Distal Sealing during Endovascular Aneurysm Repair Using Aneurysmal Common Iliac Artery as Landing Zone

BACKGROUND

Although the use of aneurysmal common iliac artery (CIA) as the landing zone during endovascular aortic aneurysm repair EVAR remains an essential procedure, this procedure may increase the risk of late complications such as ongoing CIA dilatation and type Ib endoleak (CIA-related complications). We hypothesized that incomplete sealing of the aneurysmal CIA segment during EVAR could increase the incidence of CIA-related complications. In this study, we evaluated the midterm results of EVAR with aneurysmal CIA used as the landing zone and assessed the importance of distal sealing in this procedure.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all cases of endovascular aneurysm repair using CIA as landing zone between 2007 and 2015 that had at least 3 years' follow-up. We defined aneurysmal CIA as maximum diameter ≥18 mm. The main outcome was the incidence of CIA-related complications. We compared midterm results between normal CIA and aneurysmal CIA. Next, we analyzed risk factors for CIA-related complications in aneurysmal CIA.

RESULTS

Four complications occurred in normal CIA (mean follow-up, 66.5 ± 22.1 months); 21 occurred in aneurysmal CIA (mean follow-up, 62.2 ± 20.5 months). The 5-year portion of freedom from CIA-related complications was 97.3% in normal CIA and 69.4% in aneurysmal CIA (P < 0.001). Multivariable analysis in aneurysmal CIA showed that unsealed CIA segment length was only risk factor for CIA-related complications. Given the receiver operating characteristic curve results, we defined the unsealed CIA segment ≥10 mm as incomplete sealing. The hazard ratio for incomplete sealing associated with CIA-related complications was 3.92 (95% confidence interval 1.62-9.46, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Use of aneurysmal CIA as landing zone increases the risk of CIA-related complications. However, maximum sealing of the aneurysmal CIA segment could prevent these complications.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound and/or colour duplex ultrasound for surveillance after endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair: a systematic review and economic evaluation

BACKGROUND

Endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is less invasive than open surgery, but may be associated with important complications. Patients receiving EVAR require long-term surveillance to detect abnormalities and direct treatments. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) has been the most common imaging modality adopted for EVAR surveillance, but it is associated with repeated radiation exposure and the risk of contrast-related nephropathy. Colour duplex ultrasound (CDU) and, more recently, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEU) have been suggested as possible, safer, alternatives to CTA.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of imaging strategies, using either CDU or CEU alone or in conjunction with plain radiography, compared with CTA for EVAR surveillance.

DATA SOURCES

Major electronic databases were searched, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Citation Index, Scopus' Articles-in-Press, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE) and NHS Economic Evaluation Database from 1996 onwards. We also searched for relevant ongoing studies and conference proceedings. The final searches were undertaken in September 2016.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of randomised controlled trials and cohort studies of patients with AAAs who were receiving surveillance using CTA, CDU and CEU with or without plain radiography. Three reviewers were involved in the study selection, data extraction and risk-of-bias assessment. We developed a Markov model based on five surveillance strategies: (1) annual CTA; (2) annual CDU; (3) annual CEU; (4) CDU together with CTA at 1 year, followed by CDU on an annual basis; and (5) CEU together with CTA at 1 year, followed by CEU on an annual basis. All of these strategies also considered plain radiography on an annual basis.

RESULTS

We identified two non-randomised comparative studies and 25 cohort studies of interventions, and nine systematic reviews of diagnostic accuracy. Overall, the proportion of patients who required reintervention ranged from 1.1% (mean follow-up of 24 months) to 23.8% (mean follow-up of 32 months). Reintervention was mainly required for patients with thrombosis and types I-III endoleaks. All-cause mortality ranged from 2.7% (mean follow-up of 24 months) to 42% (mean follow-up of 54.8 months). Aneurysm-related mortality occurred in < 1% of the participants. Strategies based on early and mid-term CTA and/or CDU and long-term CDU surveillance were broadly comparable with those based on a combination of CTA and CDU throughout the follow-up period in terms of clinical complications, reinterventions and mortality. The economic evaluation showed that a CDU-based strategy generated lower expected costs and higher quality-adjusted life-year (QALYs) than a CTA-based strategy and has a 63% probability of being cost-effective at a £30,000 willingness-to-pay-per-QALY threshold. A CEU-based strategy generated more QALYs, but at higher costs, and became cost-effective only for high-risk patient groups.

LIMITATIONS

Most studies were rated as being at a high or moderate risk of bias. No studies compared CDU with CEU. Substantial clinical heterogeneity precluded a formal synthesis of results. The economic model was hindered by a lack of suitable data.

CONCLUSIONS

Current surveillance practice is very heterogeneous. CDU may be a safe and cost-effective alternative to CTA, with CTA being reserved for abnormal/inconclusive CDU cases.

FUTURE WORK

Research is needed to validate the safety of modified, more-targeted surveillance protocols based on the use of CDU and CEU. The role of radiography for surveillance after EVAR requires clarification.

STUDY REGISTRATION

This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42016036475.

FUNDING

The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme.

Morphology-Related Limitations of Endovascular Aneurysm Repair Applicability in the Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in West-Central Poland

BACKGROUND

Morphology is one of the most important factors influencing the long-term durability of endovascular repair of an infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). The knowledge of morphological characteristics of AAA that may differ in various populations seems to be important for further development of a technology of endovascular repair as well as for planning of treatment strategies. To analyze the current applicability of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) in patients with an infrarenal AAA with an indication for elective treatment in west-central Poland.

METHODS

Computed tomography angiograms of 100 consecutive patients with infrarenal AAA deemed to require treatment were analyzed with an OsiriX DICOM viewer in 3D-multiplanar reconstruction mode. Proximal neck diameter, length, angulation, shape, the presence of thrombus and calcification, distal neck diameter, and morphology of the iliac arteries were determined. Three sets of morphological criteria were established. The optimal criteria consisted of a nonconical proximal neck without moderate or severe calcification or thrombus, with a diameter of 18-28 mm, length of ≥15 mm, and β angulation of <60%; a distal neck with a diameter of ≥20 mm; a landing zone in the common iliac arteries (CIAs) with a length of ≥10 mm and diameter of ≤20 mm; and external iliac arteries with diameters of ≥7 mm. The suboptimal criteria included proximal neck diameters of 18-32 mm, neck lengths ≥10 mm, infrarenal neck angulations of up to 75°, and CIA diameters of up to 25 mm. Finally, the extended suboptimal criteria included proximal neck diameters of 16-34 mm and infrarenal neck angulations ≤90°, without limits in the maximal diameter of the CIAs.

RESULTS

The median maximum aneurysm diameter was 61 mm. The optimal, suboptimal, and extended suboptimal criteria were met by 23%, 32%, and 53% of patients, respectively. The most common deviations were wide, conical, and angulated proximal necks and aneurysmal iliac arteries.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of patients with AAA deemed to be candidates for elective repair do not meet the most favorable criteria for EVAR. Availability of better endovascular solutions for conical, angulated, and wide necks and aneurysmal iliac arteries would likely expand EVAR applicability. Open repair remains a valid option.

Outcomes of Endovascular Repair of Aortoiliac Aneurysms and Analyses of Anatomic Suitability for Internal Iliac Artery Preserving Devices in Japanese Patients

BACKGROUND

Understanding that the common iliac arteries (CIA) are shorter in Asian patients, we investigated whether this anatomic difference affects the clinical outcomes of internal iliac artery (IIA) exclusion during endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) of aortoiliac aneurysm and thus limits the use of IIA-preserving devices in Japanese patients.Methods and Results:From 2008 to 2014, 69 Japanese patients underwent EVAR of aortoiliac aneurysms with 53 unilateral and 16 bilateral IIA exclusions. One patient had persistent buttock claudication during follow-up; however, colonic or spinal cord ischemia was not observed. Anatomic suitability was investigated for the iliac branch device (IBD) by Cook Medical and the iliac branch endoprosthesis (IBE) by WL Gore: 87 aortoiliac segments were analyzed, of which 17% met the criteria for the IBD, 25% met the criteria for the IBE and 40% met the criteria for either. Main exclusions for the IBD were IIA diameter >9 mm or <6 mm (47%) and CIA length <50 mm (39%). Main exclusions for the IBE were proximal CIA diameter <17 mm (44%) and aortoiliac length <165 mm (24%).

CONCLUSIONS

EVAR with IIA exclusions in Japanese patients showed low incidence of persistent buttock claudication and no major pelvic complications. Aorto-iliac morphology demonstrated smaller proximal CIA diameters and shorter CIA lengths, limiting the use of IIA-preserving devices.

Dilatation of Common Iliac Arteries after Endovascular Infrarenal Abdominal Aortic Repair with Bell-Bottom Extension

Objective

Endovascular techniques to treat abdominal aortic aneurysms results in lower morbidity and mortality rates. However, dilation of the common iliac arteries prevents adequate distal sealing, which compromises the procedure success. The aim of this study is report the long-term outcomes of patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms associated with aneurysm of the common iliac artery following endovascular repair using a bifurcated bell-bottom stent graft.

Methods

This is a retrospective study that evaluated patients treated with bifurcated bell-bottom extension stent grafts to repair an infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm and who had at least one common iliac artery with dilatation > 1.5 cm for at least 12 months after the endovascular intervention.

Results

Thirty-eight patients with a mean age of 70.4±8.2 years were included. Stent graft placement was followed by dilation of the common iliac artery aneurysms in 35.3% of cases; endoleak and reoperation rates were 17.6% and 15.7%, respectively. Younger patients showed a higher rate of artery diameter increase following the procedure. The average arterial dilation was 16% in the first year, 29% in the second year, 57% in the third year and 95% from the fourth year until the end of follow-up.

Conclusion

Repair of infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms with bifurcated bell-bottom type stents when there is common iliac artery dilation is a good therapeutic option to preserve hypogastric flow. The rate of endoleak was 17.6%, and 15.7% of cases required reoperation. Younger patients are more likely to experience dilation of the common iliac artery after the procedure.

Bilateral Staged Computed Tomography-Guided Gluteal Artery Puncture for Internal Iliac Embolization in a Patient with Type II Endoleak

Repair of isolated iliac aneurysm with stent-graft implantation and internal iliac coverage may induce significant type II endoleak from patent internal iliac refilling leading to ongoing aneurysm growth. Subsequent treatment of such complication can be challenging especially in case of bilateral iliac involvement. Open repair is technically demanding and often a high risk procedure, while embolization via transfemoral approach is unviable due to the stent-graft coverage precluding direct antegrade access between the common and the internal iliac lumen. Percutaneous retrograde embolization from superior gluteal artery is a feasible technique in case of impossible access through the origin of internal iliac artery.

Endovascular repair with contralateral external-to-internal iliac artery bypass grafting: a case series

BACKGROUND

To report a technique of keeping unilateral blood flow in the internal iliac artery in cases of an abdominal aortic aneurysm in achieving successful Endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair using an external-to-internal artery bypass.

CASE PRESENTATION

6 japanese patients with infra-renal abdominal aortic aneurysms were treated using the retroperitoneal approach via a left (right) paramedian incision followed by an external-to-internal artery bypass. Endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair was conducted on mean postoperative day 29 ± 18 and was performed because the contralateral internal iliac artery, which was not involved in the external-to-internal artery bypass, was treated with a coil embolization. No complications developed during the postoperative follow-up period (17 ± 1.5 months). In all 6 patients, patent grafts were evident on computed tomography angiography scans even after 1-3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair with unilateral internal iliac artery embolization and contralateral external-to-internal artery bypass is feasible with a relatively low risk. It is a safe procedure and reduces the incidence of postoperative complications.

A comparative study of the bell-bottom technique vs hypogastric exclusion for the treatment of aneurysmal extension to the iliac bifurcation

INTRODUCTION

A significant proportion of patients undergoing endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) have common iliac artery aneurysms (CIAA). Aneurysmal involvement at the iliac bifurcation potentially undermines long-term durability.

METHODS

Patients with CIAA who underwent EVAR were identified in two teaching hospitals. Bell-bottom technique (BBT; iliac limb ≥20 mm) or internal iliac artery embolization and limb extension to the external iliac artery (IIE + EE) were used. Outcome between these two approaches was compared.

RESULTS

We identified 185 patients. Indication for EVAR included asymptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in 157, symptomatic or ruptured aneurysm in 19, and CIAA in nine. Mean AAA diameter was 59 mm. Among 260 large CIAAs that were treated, BBT was used to treat 166 CIAA limbs, and 94 limbs underwent IIE + EE. Total reintervention rates were 11% for BBT (n = 19) and 19.1% for IIE + EE (n = 18; P = .149). Rates of reintervention for type Ib or III endoleak were 4% for BBT (n = 7) and 4% for IIE + EE (n = 4; P > .99). The difference in limb patency rates was not significant. The 30-day mortality rate was 1%. Median follow-up was 22 months. Complications did not differ significantly between the two groups; however, the combined incidence of perioperative complications and reinterventions was higher in the IIE + EE group (49% vs 22%; P = .002).

CONCLUSIONS

The combined incidence of perioperative complications and reinterventions is significantly higher with IIE + EE than with BBT; therefore, when feasible, BBT is desirable.

Hypogastric artery bypass in open repair of abdominal aortoiliac aneurysm: a safe procedure

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to assess the immediate and mid-term results of hypogastric artery bypass (HAB) in open repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).

METHODS

The clinical data of 24 patients with an average age of 70.4 years [standard deviation (S.D.)+/-8.1 years] with AAA treated between January 2005 and December 2008 with HAB during open repair of aortoiliac aneurysm were reviewed. Eighteen patients received unilateral and six bilateral hypogastric bypasses, using a segment of Dacron graft prosthesis. Concomitant hypogastric eversion endarterectomy was associated in six cases (25%). Follow-up was complete in all the 24 patients and averaged 16.2 months (range 1-35). Postoperative imaging protocol involved a conventional Echocolordoppler and CT-scan. With respect to the operating time, the blood loss, the intensive care unit (ICU) and the length of ward admission (LWA) stay, we compared the 24 patients who underwent hypogastric bypass (group A) with the 50 patients who had bifurcated graft without hypogastric bypass (group B).

RESULTS

Between the two groups, statistically different results were demonstrated only with respect to the duration of operation (h) (group A 5.19+/-1.38 vs. group B 4.39+/-1.32, P=0.0195). No statistical differences were noted for ICU stay (h) (group A median 21.50 vs. group B median 21.3, range 1 degrees -3 degrees quartile 19.75-23.50) and LWA stay (days) (group A median 8.50, range 1 degrees -3 degrees quartile 7.00-11.50 vs. group B median 8.0, range 1 degrees -3 degrees quartile 7.00-9.00). There were no operative deaths, bowel or intestinal ischemia in the early postoperative period between the two groups. In group A, one patient had transient renal failure and one patient had an acute coronary syndrome. In group B, one patient had a peripheral ischemia who required tibioperoneal embolectomy. The patency of the hypogastric grafts was demonstrated in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

In our experience, direct revascularization of the hypogastric artery to ensure pelvic vascularization in aortoiliac surgery appears a safe procedure.

Endovascular treatment of iliac aneurysm: Concurrent comparison of side branch endograft versus hypogastric exclusion

OBJECTIVE

To analyze early and mid-term outcome of endovascular treatment in patients with iliac aneurysms, comparing the results of hypogastric revascularization by branch endografting with those of hypogastric occlusion.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with iliac aneurysms receiving side branch endograft (Group I) were compared with those receiving endograft with hypogastric exclusion (Group II) during the interval from January 2000 to May 2008. Procedural details and outcomes were prospectively collected and were analyzed at one year to avoid mismatch in follow-up length.

RESULTS

A total of 74 patients (mean age, 75.8 years, 95% males) were treated: 32 in Group I and 42 in Group II. No differences in baseline risk factors and aneurysm diameter (40.2 +/- 7.9 mm in Group I vs. 38.4 +/- 10.8 in Group II) were found. Concurrent treatment of aortic aneurysm was performed in 25/32 (78%) of Group I and 36/42 (86%) of Group II. Fluoro time was 48 minutes (interquartile range [IQR] 31-57) in Group I vs. 31 minutes (IQR 23-38) in Group II (P = .04). The amount of contrast was similar in both Groups: 184 ml (IQR 155-210) in Group I vs. 183 ml (IQR 155-200) in Group II. No intestinal ischemia or deaths occurred. There were no significant differences in failures of hypogastric side branch deployment (2/32) compared with hypogastric coiling (3/42). Limb occlusions all occurring in the external iliac artery side were 2/32 in Group I vs. 3/42 in Group II. Reintervention rates were similar (5/32 vs. 4/42) at one year. Shrinkage of 5 mm or more was detected in 7/23 (30%) of Group I and in 13/37 (34%) of Group II. Iliac endoleak was present in eight patients (19%) in Group II and in one patient in Group I (4%) (P = .1). Similarly, buttock claudication or impotence were more frequent after hypogastric exclusion, recorded in eight patients in Group II and in one patient in Group I (P = .1).

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular treatment of iliac aneurysm with hypogastric revascularization through side branched endografts is feasible and safe in the mid-term. When compared with hypogastric embolization, this option leads to similar technical success and reintervention rates. Endoleak and buttock claudication occur frequently in patients with iliac aneurysm treated with hypogastric exclusion, while are uncommon in those with hypogastric revascularization. Side branch endografting for iliac aneurysm may be considered a primary choice in younger, active patients with suitable anatomy, but larger studies and longer postoperative observation periods are needed.

Endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms with concomitant common iliac artery aneurysm: outcome analysis of the EUROSTAR Experience

BACKGROUND

To compare outcomes following endovascular repair in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) patients with and without concomitant iliac artery aneurysm disease.

METHODS

Data on patient characteristics and risk factors, aneurysm morphology, interventional details, complications, and mortality were retrieved from the EUROSTAR registry database for the period from October 1996 to November 2006. AAA patients without concomitant iliac aneurysm disease (group I, n = 6286) were compared to 1268 patients with aneurysmal iliac vessels (group II) regarding mortality, device-related complications, and need for secondary interventions. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards model were performed to assess independent associations with outcome parameters in the study groups.

RESULTS

Group II had more patients classified as ASA III or IV (55.1% versus 50.3% in group I; p = 0.002); they were more frequently unfit for open aortic repair (30.3% versus 23.4%; p<0.0001) and had larger-diameter aneurysms (62.3 versus 60.7 mm; p<0.0001) and infrarenal necks (24.5 versus 24.1 mm; p<0.001). In addition, group II patients had a higher rate of internal iliac artery occlusion (11.4% versus 5.2%; p<0.0001) and more significant angulation of the aortic neck (30.8% versus 24.3%; p<0.0001) and iliac artery (48.3% versus 41.9%; p<0.0001). Group II patients had higher 5-year cumulative incidences of distal type I endoleaks (9.1% versus 4.3%; p<0.0001), iliac limb occlusion (5.9% versus 4.4%; p = 0.040), secondary transfemoral intervention (17.6% versus 8.9%; p = 0.019), and aneurysm rupture (4.5% versus 1.7%; p = 0.042).

CONCLUSION

Although aneurysm-related mortality and mortality from other causes were similar in both study groups, concomitant iliac artery aneurysms in AAA patients were associated with an increased incidence of distal type I endoleak, iliac limb occlusion, and aneurysm rupture. Therefore, caution is warranted, and efforts should be made to avoid procedural mishaps.

Outcome after hypogastric artery bypass and embolization during endovascular aneurysm repair

BACKGROUND

Multiple strategies have been devised to extend the applicability of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) in patients with common iliac artery (CIA) aneurysms. This study was designed to examine outcome in patients undergoing EVAR with either hypogastric artery embolization or common iliac artery bifurcation advancement by hypogastric bypass.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients undergoing EVAR since the inception of our program (1997-2006) was performed. Data were prospectively collected in an EVAR registry. Patients with large common iliac artery aneurysms (> or = 20 mm) and patent hypogastric arteries not amenable to a cuff or "bell bottom" technique were treated with coil embolization (EMBO) and/or hypogastric revascularization (BYPASS). The perioperative and mid-term outcomes were compared with the larger group of patients undergoing EVAR that did not require either treatment (CTRL). Bilateral common iliac artery aneurysms were treated with unilateral coil embolization and contralateral bypass.

RESULTS

Common iliac artery aneurysms were present in 137 (31%) of the 444 patients undergoing EVAR, but only 57 (42%) of 137 required direct management. This included hypogastric artery embolization alone (EMBO) in 31 or hypogastric artery revascularization (BYPASS) in 26, with and without contralateral embolization (both revascularization/embolization in 46%). The procedure length (CTRL, 159 +/- 72 minutes; EMBO, 153 +/- 39 minutes; BYPASS, 283 +/- 75 minutes) and estimated blood loss (CTRL, 251 +/- 313 mL; EMBO, 233 +/- 158 mL; BYPASS, 400 +/- 287 mL) were significantly greater (P < .05) in the BYPASS group. The incidence of any postoperative complication (CTRL, 26%; EMBO, 68%; BYPASS, 54%), any ischemic complication (CTRL, 6%; EMBO, 55%; BYPASS, 27%), and new-onset buttock claudication (CTRL, 3%; EMBO, 39%; BYPASS, 27%) were all significantly greater in the BYPASS and EMBO group relative to the control (CTRL) group (n = 387). The incidence of new-onset buttock claudication ipsilateral to the hypogastric bypass was 4%; the balance of the new onset claudication in the BYPASS group was due to the contralateral embolization. The primary hypogastric artery bypass patency was 91 +/- 11% (SE) at 36 months by life-table analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite its increased complexity, hypogastric artery bypass is an excellent alternative to embolization in terms of patency and freedom from ischemic symptoms for patients with large common iliac artery aneurysms undergoing EVAR.

Systematic review of recent evidence for the safety and efficacy of elective endovascular repair in the management of infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm

Background

Conventional management of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is by open repair and is associated with a mortality rate of 2–6 per cent. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is an alternative technique first introduced in 1991. A systematic review was undertaken of the evidence for the safety and efficacy of elective EVAR in the management of asymptomatic infrarenal AAA.

Methods

Thirteen electronic bibliographical databases were searched, covering biomedical, health-related, science and social science literature. Outcomes were assessed with respect to efficacy (successful deployment, technical success, conversion rates and secondary intervention rates) and safety (30-day mortality rate, procedure morbidity rates and technical issues—endoleaks, graft thrombosis, stenosis and migration).

Results

Of 606 reports identified, 61 met the inclusion criteria (three randomized and 15 non-randomized controlled trials, and 43 uncontrolled studies). There were 29 059 participants in total; 19 804 underwent EVAR. Deployment was successful in 97·6 per cent of cases. Technical success (complete aneurysm exclusion) was 81·9 per cent at discharge and 88·8 per cent at 30 days. Secondary intervention to treat endoleak or maintain graft patency was required in 16·2 per cent of patients. Mean stay in the intensive care unit and mean hospital stay were significantly shorter following EVAR. The 30-day mortality rate for EVAR was 1·6 per cent (randomized controlled trials) and 2·0 per cent in nonrandomized trials and case series. Technical complications comprised stent migration (4·0 per cent), graft limb thrombosis (3·9 per cent), endoleak (type I, 6·8 per cent; type II, 10·3 per cent; type III, 4·2 per cent) and access artery injury (4·8 per cent).

Discussion

EVAR is technically effective and safe, with lower short-term morbidity and mortality rates than open surgery. However, there is a need for extended follow-up as the long-term success of EVAR in preventing aneurysm-related deaths is not yet known.

Diameter of abdominal aortic aneurysm and outcome of endovascular aneurysm repair: does size matter? A report from EUROSTAR

OBJECTIVES

This study was undertaken to determine the effect of the preoperative diameter of abdominal aortic aneurysms on the midterm outcome after endovascular abdominal aneurysm repair (EVAR).

METHOD

The data for 4392 patients who had undergone EVAR were analyzed. Patients were enrolled over 6 years to June 2002 in the EUROSTAR database. Outcomes were compared between three groups defined by the preoperative diameter of the aneurysm: group A (n = 1962), 4.0 to 5.4 cm; group B (n = 1528), 5.5 to 6.4 cm; and group C (n = 902), 6.5 cm or larger. Patient characteristics, details of aortoiliac anatomy, operative procedures, old or current device generation, and postoperative complications in the three patient groups were compared. Outcome events included aneurysm-related death, unrelated death, conversion, and post-EVAR rupture of the aneurysm. Life table analysis and log-rank tests were used to compare outcome in the three study groups. Multivariate Cox models were used to determine whether baseline and follow-up variables were independently associated with adverse outcome events.

RESULTS

Patients in group C were significantly older than patients in groups A and B (73 years vs 70 and 72 years, respectively; P =.003 - P <.0001 for different group comparisons), and more frequently were at higher operative risk (American Society of Anesthesiologists classification >or=3; 63% vs 48% and 54%; P =.0002-P <.0001). Device-related (type I) endoleaks were more frequently observed at early postoperative arteriography in group C compared with groups A and B (9.9% vs 3.7% and 6.8%; P =.01-P <.0001). Postoperatively systemic complications were more frequently present in group C (17.4% vs 12.0% in group A and 12.6% in group B; P <.0001 and.001). The first-month mortality was approximately twice as high in group C compared with the other groups combined (4.1% vs 2.1%; P <.0001). Late rupture was most frequent in group C. Follow-up results at midterm were less favorable in groups C and B compared with group A (freedom from rupture, 90%, 98%, and 98% at 4 years in groups C, B, and A, respectively; P <.0001 for group C vs groups A and B). Aneurysm-related death was highest in group C (88% freedom at 4 years, compared with 95% in group B and 97% in A; P =.001 and P <.0001, respectively; group B vs A, P =.004). The annual rate of aneurysm-related death in group C was 1% in the first 3 years, but accelerated to 8.0% in the fourth year. Incidence of unrelated death also was higher in groups C and B than in group A (76% and 82% freedom at 4 years vs 87%; P <.0001 for both comparisons). Ratio of aneurysm-related to unrelated death was 23%, 21%, and 50% in groups A, B, and C, respectively. Cox models demonstrated that the correlation between large aneurysms (group C) and all assessed outcome events was independent and highly significant. Older generation devices had an independent association with aneurysm-related and unrelated deaths (P =.02 and P =.04, respectively). However, this correlation was less strong than large aneurysm diameter (P =.0001 and P =.0009, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The midterm outcome of large aneurysms after EVAR was associated with increased rates of aneurysm-related death, unrelated death, and rupture. Reports of EVAR should stratify their outcomes according to the diameter of the aneurysm. Large aneurysms need a more rigorous post-EVAR surveillance schedule than do smaller aneurysms. In small aneurysms EVAR was associated with excellent outcome. This finding may justify reappraisal of currently accepted management strategies.