1
|
Kletzer J, Berger T, Domin P, Schlett CL, Kondov S, Fagu A, Eschenhagen M, Czerny M, Rylski B, Kreibich M. Ascending geometry after thoracic endovascular aortic repair for descending aortic dissection. Ann Vasc Surg 2024:S0890-5096(24)00497-7. [PMID: 39098724 DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2024.07.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to assess geometry changes of the ascending aorta after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for descending aortic dissection and identify potential risk factors for diameter and length change. METHODS Between 04/2009 and 07/2021, 102 patients were treated for acute descending aortic dissections (Type B and non-A non-B) with TEVAR and were included in this analysis. Computed tomography angiographic scans were transferred to a dedicated imaging software and detailed aortic measurements (including length, diameter and area) were taken in multiplanar reconstruction postoperatively, after six months and annually thereafter. RESULTS Sixty-five (58%) patients were male, with a mean age of 66 (±11). Four (4%) patients were diagnosed with a connective tissue disease. Before TEVAR, 79% of our patients were treated with a mean of 1.5 (±1.2) different classes of antihypertensive medications. This number rose to 98% after TEVAR and 2.7 (±1.0) different antihypertensive drugs. There was no significant change in length, diameter, cross-sectional area, or volume of the ascending aorta during the follow-up of 3 years after TEVAR. Body height was a negative predictor for mean ascending aortic diameter (p-value = -0.013; B = -8.890) and mean aortic diameter at the level of the brachiocephalic trunk (p-value = 0.039; B = -14.763). CONCLUSIONS Our data suggests no significant changes in the ascending aorta following TEVAR of the descending thoracic aorta during mid-term follow-up when under stringent blood pressure medication. Additionally, we did not find any modifiable risk factors for geometry parameter increase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Kletzer
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Freiburg Heart Centre, Freiburg, Germany, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tim Berger
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Freiburg Heart Centre, Freiburg, Germany, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Pauline Domin
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Freiburg Heart Centre, Freiburg, Germany, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christopher L Schlett
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Centre - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stoyan Kondov
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Freiburg Heart Centre, Freiburg, Germany, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Albi Fagu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Freiburg Heart Centre, Freiburg, Germany, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Eschenhagen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Freiburg Heart Centre, Freiburg, Germany, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Martin Czerny
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Freiburg Heart Centre, Freiburg, Germany, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bartosz Rylski
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Robert Bosch Hospital, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Maximilian Kreibich
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Freiburg Heart Centre, Freiburg, Germany, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li B, Meng X, Fu C, Yang Z, Zhao X. The correlation study between the length and angle of ascending aortic and the incidence risk of acute type A aortic dissection. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1375601. [PMID: 38590696 PMCID: PMC10999610 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1375601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study utilized computed tomography angiography (CTA) to assess the risk of acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) by analyzing the imaging morphology indicators of the ascending aorta, along with the relevant risk factors associated with aortic dissection. Methods The study utilized a retrospective observational research design. The population consisted of 172 patients who received treatment in the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, from January 2018 to December 2022. The patients were divided into two groups: the ATAAD group (n = 97) and the thoracic aortic aneurysm group (TAA, n = 75). Demographic data and ascending aorta CTA measurements were collected from all patients. Single factor and multivariate logistic regression were employed to analyze the statistical differences in clinical data and ascending aorta CTA imaging morphology indicators between the two groups. Results The variables were included in logistic multivariate analysis for further screening, indicating that the length of the ascending aorta (LAA) before ATAAD (OR = 3.365; 95% CI :1.742-6.500, P<0.001), ascending arch angle (asc-arch angle, OR = 0.902; 95% CI: 0.816-0.996, P = 0.042) and the maximum aortic diameter (MAD) before ATAAD, (OR = 0.614; 95% CI: 0.507-0.743, P<0.001) showed statistically significant differences. Conclusions This study suggests that increased LAA and MAD, as well as a smaller asc-arch angle may be high-risk factors for the onset of ATAAD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kazim M, Razian SA, Zamani E, Varandani D, Shahbad R, Desyatova A, Jadidi M. Variability in structure, morphology, and mechanical properties of the descending thoracic and infrarenal aorta around their circumference. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2024; 150:106332. [PMID: 38160644 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2023.106332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Aortic diseases, such as aneurysms, atherosclerosis, and dissections, demonstrate a preferential development and progression around the aortic circumference, resulting in a highly heterogeneous disease state around the circumference. Differences in the aorta's structural composition and mechanical properties may be partly responsible for this phenomenon. Our goal in this study was to analyze the mechanical and structural properties of the human aorta at its lateral, anterior, posterior, and medial quadrants in two regions prone to circumferentially inhomogeneous diseases, descending Thoracic Aorta (TA) and Infrarenal Aorta (IFR). Human aortas were obtained from 10 donors (64 ± 11 years) and dissected from their loose surrounding tissue. Mechanical properties were determined in all four quadrants of TA and IFR using planar biaxial testing and fitted to three common constitutive models. The structure of tissues was assessed using Movat Pentachrome stained histology slides. We observed that the anterior quadrant exhibited the greatest thickness, followed by the lateral region, in both the TA and IFR. In TA, the posterior wall appeared as the stiffest location in most samples, while in IFR, the anterior wall was the stiffest. We observed a higher glycosaminoglycans content in the lateral and posterior regions of the IFR. We found elastin density to be similar in TA lateral, anterior, and posterior quadrants, while in IFR, the anterior region demonstrated the highest elastin density. Despite significant variations between subjects, this study highlights the distinct morphometrical, mechanical, and structural properties between the quadrants of both TA and IFR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madihah Kazim
- Department of Biomechanics, University of Nebraska Omaha, Omaha, NE, USA
| | | | - Elham Zamani
- Department of Biomechanics, University of Nebraska Omaha, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Dheeraj Varandani
- Department of Computer Science, University of Nebraska Omaha, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Ramin Shahbad
- Department of Biomechanics, University of Nebraska Omaha, Omaha, NE, USA
| | | | - Majid Jadidi
- Department of Biomechanics, University of Nebraska Omaha, Omaha, NE, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sarantides P, Raptis A, Mathioulakis D, Moulakakis K, Kakisis J, Manopoulos C. Computational Study of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Walls Accounting for Patient-Specific Non-Uniform Intraluminal Thrombus Thickness and Distinct Material Models: A Pre- and Post-Rupture Case. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:144. [PMID: 38391630 PMCID: PMC10886172 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11020144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
An intraluminal thrombus (ILT) is present in the majority of abdominal aortic aneurysms, playing a crucial role in their growth and rupture. Although most computational studies do not include the ILT, in the present study, this is taken into account, laying out the whole simulation procedure, namely, from computed tomography scans to medical image segmentation, geometry reconstruction, mesh generation, biomaterial modeling, finite element analysis, and post-processing, all carried out in open software. By processing the tomography scans of a patient's aneurysm before and after rupture, digital twins are reconstructed assuming a uniform aortic wall thickness. The ILT and the aortic wall are assigned different biomaterial models; namely, the first is modeled as an isotropic linear elastic material, and the second is modeled as the Mooney-Rivlin hyperelastic material as well as the transversely isotropic hyperelastic Holzapfel-Gasser-Ogden nonlinear material. The implementation of the latter requires the designation of local Cartesian coordinate systems in the aortic wall, suitably oriented in space, for the proper orientation of the collagen fibers. The composite aneurysm geometries (ILT and aortic wall structures) are loaded with normal and hypertensive static intraluminal pressure. Based on the calculated stress and strain distributions, ILT seems to be protecting the aneurysm from a structural point of view, as the highest stresses appear in the thrombus-free areas of the aneurysmal wall.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Platon Sarantides
- Laboratory of Biofluid Mechanics & Biomedical Technology, School of Mechanical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 157 72 Zografos, Greece
| | - Anastasios Raptis
- Laboratory of Biofluid Mechanics & Biomedical Technology, School of Mechanical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 157 72 Zografos, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Mathioulakis
- Laboratory of Biofluid Mechanics & Biomedical Technology, School of Mechanical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 157 72 Zografos, Greece
- School of Engineering, Bahrain Polytechnic, Isa Town P.O. Box 33349, Bahrain
| | - Konstantinos Moulakakis
- Department of Vascular Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 265 04 Patras, Greece
| | - John Kakisis
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 106 79 Athens, Greece
| | - Christos Manopoulos
- Laboratory of Biofluid Mechanics & Biomedical Technology, School of Mechanical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 157 72 Zografos, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mancusi C, Manzi MV, Lembo M, Fucile I, Basile C, Bardi L, Morisco C, De Luca N, Bossone E, Trimarco B, Izzo R, de Simone G, Esposito G. Normalization of ascending aorta dimension for body size influences pathophysiologic correlation in hypertensive patients: the Campania Salute Network. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2023; 30:1774-1780. [PMID: 37409686 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwad224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS In the present study, we assessed correlates and their consistency of ascending aorta (AscAo) measurement in treated hypertensive patients. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 1634 patients ≥ 18 years old with available AscAo ultrasound were included. Ascending aorta was measured at end-diastole with leading edge to leading edge method, perpendicular to the long axis of the aorta in parasternal long-axis view at its maximal identifiable dimension. Correlations of AscAo and AscAo normalized for height (AscAo/HT) or body surface area (AscAo/BSA) with demographics and metabolic profile were explored. Multi-variable regression was also used to identify potential confounders influencing univariate correlations. Sensitivity analysis was performed using cardiovascular (CV) outcome. Correlations with age, estimated glomerular filtration rate, systolic blood pressure (BP), and heart rate (HR) were similar among the three aortic measures. Women exhibited smaller AscAo but larger AscAo/BSA than men with AscAo/HT offsetting the sex difference. Obesity and diabetes were associated with greater AscAo and AscAo/HT but with smaller AscAo/BSA (all P < 0.001). In multi-variable regression model, all aortic measure confirmed the sign of their relations with sex and metabolic profile independently of age, BP, and HR. In Kaplan-Mayer analysis, only dilated AscAo and AscAo/HT were significantly associated with increased risk of CV events (both P < 0.008). CONCLUSIONS Among patients with long-standing controlled systemic hypertension, magnitude of aortic remodelling is influenced by the type of the measure adopted, with physiological consistency only for AscAo and AscAo/HT, but not for AscAo/BSA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Costantino Mancusi
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Maria Virginia Manzi
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Maria Lembo
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Ilaria Fucile
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Christian Basile
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Luca Bardi
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Carmine Morisco
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Nicola De Luca
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Eduardo Bossone
- Department of Public Health, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Bruno Trimarco
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Raffaele Izzo
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Giovanni de Simone
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Giovanni Esposito
- Hypertension Research Center, Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, Federico II University, Via S. Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Houben IB, Chu AKY, Yang B, Kim KM, Fukuhara S, van Herwaarden JA, Moll FL, Nordsletten DA, Figueroa CA, Burris NS, Patel HJ. Left ventricular remodeling following aortic root and ascending aneurysm repair. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:944786. [DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.944786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveAdverse left ventricular remodeling due to a mismatch between stiffness of native aortic tissue and current polyester grafts may be under-recognized. This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of proximal aortic replacement on adverse remodeling of the left ventricle.Materials and methodsAll aortic root and ascending aortic aneurysm patients were identified (n = 2,001, 2006–2019). The study cohort consisted of a subset of patients (n = 98) with two or more electrocardiogram (ECG)-gated CT angiograms, but without concomitant aortic valve disease or bicuspid aortic valve, connective tissue disease, acute aortic syndrome or prior history of aortic repair or mitral valve surgery. LV myocardial mass was measured from CT data and indexed to body surface area (LVMI). The study cohort was divided into a surgery group (n = 47) and a control group; optimal medical therapy group (OMT, n = 51).ResultsThe mean age was 60 ± 11 years (80% male). Beta-blocker use was significantly more frequent in the surgery group (89 vs. 57%, p < 0.001), whereas, all other antihypertensive drugs were more frequent in the OMT group. The average follow-up was 9.1 ± 4.0 months for the surgery group and 13.7 ± 6.3 months for the OMT group. Average LVMI at baseline was similar in both groups (p = 0.934). LVMI increased significantly in the surgery group compared to the OMT group (3.7 ± 4.1 vs. 0.6 ± 4.4 g/m2, p = 0.001). Surgery, baseline LVMI, age, and sex were found to be independent predictors of LVMI increased on multivariable analysis.ConclusionProximal aortic repair with stiff polyester grafts was associated with increased LV mass in the first-year post-operative and may promote long-term adverse cardiac remodeling. Further studies should be considered to evaluate the competing effects of aortic aneurysm related mortality against risks of long-term graft induced aortic stiffening and the potential implications on current size thresholds for intervention.
Collapse
|
7
|
Huang A, Weiss V. Valsalva maneuvers during computed tomography (CT) can demonstrate seemingly worrisome but ultimately transient aortoiliac narrowing. Radiol Case Rep 2022; 17:2927-2929. [PMID: 35755099 PMCID: PMC9218291 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2022.05.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Computed tomography (CT) being performed with Valsalva is an efficacious and common technique performed to evaluate for abdominal hernias. In certain circumstances, Valsalva can generate sufficient intra-abdominal pressure to cause aortoiliac compression that can raise concerns for possible aortic atresia. Repeat CT without Valsalva generally demonstrates that these changes are transitory, and no further intervention is typically required. Given the ever-growing number of CTs with Valsalva being performed for hernia evaluation, clinicians involved in interpreting abdominal CTs should be aware of this concerning appearing but ultimately benign phenomenon.
Collapse
|
8
|
Saade W, Vinciguerra M, Romiti S, Macrina F, Frati G, Miraldi F, Greco E. 3D morphometric analysis of ascending aorta as an adjunctive tool to predict type A acute aortic dissection. J Thorac Dis 2021; 13:3443-3457. [PMID: 34277040 PMCID: PMC8264695 DOI: 10.21037/jtd-21-119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Acute type A aortic dissection (AAAD) is a pathological process that implicates the ascending aorta and represents a surgical emergency burdened by high mortality if not promptly treated in the first hours of onset. Despite best efforts, the annual incidence rates of aortic dissection has remained stable over the past decades. We measured aortic dimensions (aortic diameters, area, length and volume) using 3D multiplanar reconstruction imaging with the purpose of refining the risk- morphology for AAAD. Methods Computerized tomography angiography studies of three groups were compared retrospectively: patients affected by AAAD (AAAD group; n=71), patients affected by aortic aneurysm and subsequently subjected to ascending aorta replacement (Aneurysm, n=77) and a healthy aorta’s group (Control, n=75). Results Mean diameters of AAAD (4.9 cm) and Aneurysm (5.1 cm) aortas were significantly larger than those of the control group (3.4 cm). In AAAD patients, an ascending aorta diameter greater than 5.5 cm was observed in 18% of patients. Multiple comparisons showed statistically significant differences among mean of the ratio of aortic root area to height between the three groups (P<0.001). In frontal and sagittal planes, the length of the ascending aorta was significantly greater in patients affected by aortic pathology (AAAD and aneurysm) than in the control group (P<0.001). Significant differences were confirmed when indexing the aortic length to patient’s height and BSA, and the aortic volume to patient’s BSA. Conclusions Maximum transverse diameter, considered separately, is not the best predictor of aortic dissection. In our opinion, the introduction into clinical practice of measurements of the area, length, and volume of the aorta, as absolute or indexed values, could improve the selection of patients who would benefit from preventive surgical aortic replacement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wael Saade
- Department of Clinical, Internal Medicine, Anaesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Vinciguerra
- Department of Clinical, Internal Medicine, Anaesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Romiti
- Department of Clinical, Internal Medicine, Anaesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Macrina
- Department of Clinical, Internal Medicine, Anaesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Frati
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,IRCCS NEUROMED, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Fabio Miraldi
- Department of Clinical, Internal Medicine, Anaesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ernesto Greco
- Department of Clinical, Internal Medicine, Anaesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Development of an FEA framework for analysis of subject-specific aortic compliance based on 4D flow MRI. Acta Biomater 2021; 125:154-171. [PMID: 33639309 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents a subject-specific in-silico framework in which we uncover the relationship between the spatially varying constituents of the aorta and the non-linear compliance of the vessel during the cardiac cycle uncovered through our MRI investigations. A microstructurally motivated constitutive model is developed, and simulations reveal that internal vessel contractility, due to pre-stretched elastin and actively generated smooth muscle cell stress, must be incorporated, along with collagen strain stiffening, in order to accurately predict the non-linear pressure-area relationship observed in-vivo. Modelling of elastin and smooth muscle cell contractility allows for the identification of the reference vessel configuration at zero-lumen pressure, in addition to accurately predicting high- and low-compliance regimes under a physiological range of pressures. This modelling approach is also shown to capture the key features of elastin digestion and SMC activation experiments. The volume fractions of the constituent components of the aortic material model were computed so that the in-silico pressure-area curves accurately predict the corresponding MRI data at each location. Simulations reveal that collagen and smooth muscle volume fractions increase distally, while elastin volume fraction decreases distally, consistent with reported histological data. Furthermore, the strain at which collagen transitions from low to high stiffness is lower in the abdominal aorta, again supporting the histological finding that collagen waviness is lower distally. The analyses presented in this paper provide new insights into the heterogeneous structure-function relationship that underlies aortic biomechanics. Furthermore, this subject-specific MRI/FEA methodology provides a foundation for personalised in-silico clinical analysis and tailored aortic device development. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This study provides a significant advance in in-silico medicine by capturing the structure/function relationship of the subject-specific human aorta presented in our previous MRI analyses. A physiologically based aortic constitutive model is developed, and simulations reveal that internal vessel contractility must be incorporated, along with collagen strain stiffening, to accurately predict the in-vivo non-linear pressure-area relationship. Furthermore, this is the first subject-specific model to predict spatial variation in the volume fractions of aortic wall constituents. Previous studies perform phenomenological hyperelastic curve fits to medical imaging data and ignore the prestress contribution of elastin, collagen, and SMCs and the associated zero-pressure reference state of the vessel. This novel MRI/FEA framework can be used as an in-silico diagnostic tool for the early stage detection of aortic pathologies.
Collapse
|
10
|
Concannon J, Hynes N, McMullen M, Smyth E, Moerman K, McHugh PE, Sultan S, Karmonik C, McGarry JP. A Dual-VENC Four-Dimensional Flow MRI Framework for Analysis of Subject-Specific Heterogeneous Nonlinear Vessel Deformation. J Biomech Eng 2020; 142:114502. [PMID: 33006370 DOI: 10.1115/1.4048649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Advancement of subject-specific in silico medicine requires new imaging protocols tailored to specific anatomical features, paired with new constitutive model development based on structure/function relationships. In this study, we develop a new dual-velocity encoding coefficient (VENC) 4D flow MRI protocol that provides unprecedented spatial and temporal resolution of in vivo aortic deformation. All previous dual-VENC 4D flow MRI studies in the literature focus on an isolated segment of the aorta, which fail to capture the full spectrum of aortic heterogeneity that exists along the vessel length. The imaging protocol developed provides high sensitivity to all blood flow velocities throughout the entire cardiac cycle, overcoming the challenge of accurately measuring the highly unsteady nonuniform flow field in the aorta. Cross-sectional area change, volumetric flow rate, and compliance are observed to decrease with distance from the heart, while pulse wave velocity (PWV) is observed to increase. A nonlinear aortic lumen pressure-area relationship is observed throughout the aorta such that a high vessel compliance occurs during diastole, and a low vessel compliance occurs during systole. This suggests that a single value of compliance may not accurately represent vessel behavior during a cardiac cycle in vivo. This high-resolution MRI data provide key information on the spatial variation in nonlinear aortic compliance, which can significantly advance the state-of-the-art of in-silico diagnostic techniques for the human aorta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Concannon
- Biomedical Engineering, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - N Hynes
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - M McMullen
- Department of Radiology, Galway Clinic, Doughiska, Galway H91 HHT0, Ireland
| | - E Smyth
- Department of Radiology, Galway Clinic, Doughiska, Galway H91 HHT0, Ireland
| | - K Moerman
- Biomedical Engineering, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - P E McHugh
- Biomedical Engineering, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - S Sultan
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - C Karmonik
- MRI Core, Houston Methodist Debakey Heart and Vascular Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - J P McGarry
- Biomedical Engineering, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway H91 TK33, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Krüger T, Boburg RS, Hamdoun H, Oikonomou A, Bongers MN, Schlensak C. Development of a multivariable prediction model for patient-adjusted aortic risk morphology. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2020; 58:692-699. [DOI: 10.1093/ejcts/ezaa131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Preventing type A aortic dissection requires reliable prediction. We developed and validated a multivariable prediction model based on anthropometry to define patient-adjusted thresholds for aortic diameter and length.
METHODS
We analysed computed tomography angiographies and clinical data from 510 control patients, 143 subjects for model validation, 125 individuals with ascending aorta ectasia (45–54 mm), 58 patients with aneurysm (≥55 mm), 206 patients with type A aortic dissection and 19 patients who had received a computed tomography angiography ≤2 years before they suffered from a type A aortic dissection. Computed tomography angiographies were analysed using curved planar reformations.
RESULTS
In the control group, the mean ascending aortic diameter was 33.8 mm [standard deviation (SD) ±5.2 mm], and the length, measured from the aortic valve to the brachiocephalic trunk, was 91.9 mm (SD ±12.2 mm); both diameter and length were correlated with anthropometric parameters and were smaller than the respective values in all pathological groups (P < 0.001). Multivariable linear regression analysis of the control group revealed that age, sex and body surface area were predictors of ascending aorta diameter (R2 = 0.40) and length (R2 = 0.26). Bicuspidity of the aortic valve was not included in the model; its prevalence was only 3.2% in the control group but >25% in the ectasia and aneurysm groups.
CONCLUSIONS
The regression model provides a patient-adjusted prediction of the thresholds for aortic diameter and length. In our retrospective data, the model resulted in better identification of aortas at the risk of dissection than the conventional 55-mm diameter threshold. The model is available as an Internet calculator (www.aorticcalculator.com).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Krüger
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Rodrigo Sandoval Boburg
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Hasan Hamdoun
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Alexandre Oikonomou
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Malte N Bongers
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christian Schlensak
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Mechano-biological adaptation of the pulmonary artery exposed to systemic conditions. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2724. [PMID: 32066803 PMCID: PMC7026065 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59554-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac surgeries may expose pulmonary arterial tissue to systemic conditions, potentially resulting in failure of that tissue. Our goal was to quantitatively assess pulmonary artery adaptation due to changes in mechanical environment. In 17 sheep, we placed a pulmonary autograft in aortic position, with or without macroporous mesh reinforcement. It was exposed to systemic conditions for 6 months. All sheep underwent 3 ECG-gated MRI’s. Explanted tissue was subjected to mechanical and histological analysis. Results showed progressive dilatation of the unreinforced autograft, while reinforced autografts stabilized after two months. Some unreinforced pulmonary autograft samples displayed more aorta-like mechanical behavior with increased collagen deposition. The mechanical behavior of reinforced autografts was dominated by the mesh. The decrease in media thickness and loss of vascular smooth muscle cells was more pronounced in reinforced than in unreinforced autografts. In conclusion, altering the mechanical environment of a pulmonary artery causes changes in its mechano-biological properties.
Collapse
|
13
|
Sokolis DP, Bompas A, Papadodima SA, Kourkoulis SK. Variation of Axial Residual Strains Along the Course and Circumference of Human Aorta Considering Age and Gender. J Biomech Eng 2020; 142:021003. [PMID: 31141590 DOI: 10.1115/1.4043877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Our understanding of aortic biomechanics is customarily limited by lack of information on the axial residual stretches of the vessel in both humans and experimental animals that would facilitate the identification of its actual zero-stress state. The aim of this study was thus to acquire hitherto unreported quantitative knowledge of axial opening angle and residual stretches in different segments and quadrants of the human aorta according to age and gender. Twenty-three aortas were harvested during autopsy from the aortic root to the iliac bifurcation and were divided into ≥12 segments and 4 quadrants. Morphometric measurements were taken in the excised/curled configuration of rectangular strips considered to be under zero-stress using image-analysis software to study the axial/circumferential variation of axial opening angle, internal/external residual stretch, and thickness of the aortic wall. The measured data demonstrated: (1) an axial opening angle peak at the arch branches, decreasing toward the ascending and to a near-constant value in the descending thoracic aorta, and increasing in the abdominal aorta; (2) the variation of residual stretches resembled that of opening angle, but axial differences in external residual stretch were more prominent; (3) wall thickness showed a progressive diminution along the vessel; (4) the highest opening angle/residual stretches were found in the inner quadrant and the lowest in the outer quadrant; (5) the anterior was the thinnest quadrant throughout the aorta; (6) age caused thickening but greatly reduced axial opening angle/residual stretches, without differences between males and females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios P Sokolis
- Laboratory of Biomechanics, Center of Clinical, Experimental Surgery, and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, 4 Soranou Ephesiou Street, Athens 115 27, Greece
| | - Andreas Bompas
- Department of Mechanics, School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences, National Technical University of Athens, 5 Heroes of Polytechnion Avenue, Theocaris Bld., Zografou Campus, Athens 157 73, Greece
| | - Stavroula A Papadodima
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, M. Asias 75, Goudi, Athens 115 27, Greece
| | - Stavros K Kourkoulis
- Department of Mechanics, School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences, National Technical University of Athens, 5 Heroes of Polytechnion Avenue, Theocaris Bld., Zografou Campus, Athens 157 73, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Concannon J, Dockery P, Black A, Sultan S, Hynes N, McHugh PE, Moerman KM, McGarry JP. Quantification of the regional bioarchitecture in the human aorta. J Anat 2020; 236:142-155. [PMID: 31512228 PMCID: PMC6904601 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Regional variance in human aortic bioarchitecture responsible for the elasticity of the vessel is poorly understood. The current study quantifies the elements responsible for aortic compliance, namely, elastin, collagen and smooth muscle cells, using histological and stereological techniques on human tissue with a focus on regional heterogeneity. Using donated cadaveric tissue, a series of samples were excised between the proximal ascending aorta and the distal abdominal aorta, for five cadavers, each of which underwent various staining procedures to enhance specific constituents of the wall. Using polarised light microscopy techniques, the orientation of collagen fibres was studied for each location and each tunical layer of the aorta. Significant transmural and longitudinal heterogeneity in collagen fibre orientations were uncovered throughout the vessel. It is shown that a von Mises mixture model is required accurately to fit the complex collagen fibre distributions that exist along the aorta. Additionally, collagen and smooth muscle cell density was observed to increase with increasing distance from the heart, whereas elastin density decreased. Evidence clearly demonstrates that the aorta is a highly heterogeneous vessel which cannot be simplistically represented by a single compliance value. The quantification and fitting of the regional aortic bioarchitectural data, although not without its limitations, including mean cohort age of 77.6 years, facilitates the development of next-generation finite element models that can potentially simulate the influence of regional aortic composition and microstructure on vessel biomechanics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. Concannon
- Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Ireland GalwayGalwayIreland
| | - P. Dockery
- Anatomy, School of MedicineNational University of Ireland GalwayGalwayIreland
| | - A. Black
- Anatomy, School of MedicineNational University of Ireland GalwayGalwayIreland
| | - S. Sultan
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular SurgeryNational University of Ireland GalwayGalwayIreland
| | - N. Hynes
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular SurgeryNational University of Ireland GalwayGalwayIreland
| | - P. E. McHugh
- Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Ireland GalwayGalwayIreland
| | - K. M. Moerman
- Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Ireland GalwayGalwayIreland
- Biomechatronics, Media LabMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMAUSA
| | - J. P. McGarry
- Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Ireland GalwayGalwayIreland
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li X, Chen L, Gao Z, Liu J, Chen W. [Experimental study on mechanical properties of the ventral and the dorsal tissues of porcine descending aorta]. SHENG WU YI XUE GONG CHENG XUE ZA ZHI = JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING = SHENGWU YIXUE GONGCHENGXUE ZAZHI 2019; 36:596-603. [PMID: 31441260 PMCID: PMC10319513 DOI: 10.7507/1001-5515.201905005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The mechanical properties of the aorta tissue is not only important for maintaining the cardiovascular health, but also is closely related to the development of cardiovascular diseases. There are obvious differences between the ventral and dorsal tissues of the descending aorta. However, the cause of the difference is still unclear. In this study, a biaxial tensile approach was used to determine the parameters of porcine descending aorta by analyzing the stress-strain curves. The strain energy functions Gasser-Ogden-Holzapfel was adopted to characterize the orthotropic parameters of mechanical properties. Elastic Van Gieson (EVG) and Sirius red stain were used to observe the microarchitecture of elastic and collagen fibers, respectively. Our results showed that the tissue of descending aorta had more orthotropic and higher elastic modulus in the dorsal region compared to the ventral region in the circumferential direction. No significant difference was found in hyperelastic constitutive parameters between the dorsal and ventral regions, but the angle of collagen fiber was smaller than 0.785 rad (45°) in both dorsal and ventral regions. The arrangement of fiber was inclined to be circumferential. EVG and Sirius red stain showed that in outer-middle membrane of the descending aorta, the density of elastic fibrous layer of the ventral region was higher than that of the dorsal region; the amount of collagen fibers in dorsal region was more than that of the ventral region. The results suggested that the difference of mechanical properties between the dorsal and ventral tissues in the descending aorta was related to the microstructure of the outer membrane of the aorta. In the relatively small strain range, the difference in mechanical properties between the ventral and dorsal tissues of the descending aorta can be ignored; when the strain is higher, it needs to be treated differently. The results of this study provide data for the etiology of arterial disease (such as arterial dissection) and the design of artificial blood vessel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Li
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, P.R.China
| | - Lingfeng Chen
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, P.R.China
| | - Zhipeng Gao
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, P.R.China
| | - Jiahe Liu
- College of Architecture, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, P.R.China
| | - Weiyi Chen
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024,
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Polanczyk A, Podgorski M, Polanczyk M, Veshkina N, Zbicinski I, Stefanczyk L, Neumayer C. A novel method for describing biomechanical properties of the aortic wall based on the three-dimensional fluid-structure interaction model. Interact Cardiovasc Thorac Surg 2019; 28:306-315. [PMID: 30101344 DOI: 10.1093/icvts/ivy252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Our goal was to present a novel non-invasive approach for assessment of aortic wall displacement to describe its biomechanical properties during the cardiac cycle. METHODS The fluid-structure interaction (FSI) technique was used to reconstruct aortic wall displacement based on computed tomography angiography and 2-dimensional speckle-tracking technique (2DSTT) data collected from 20 patients [10 with healthy aortas (AA) and 10 with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs)]. The mechanical properties of the wall of the aorta were described by the Yeoh hyperelastic materials model with α and β parameters, and wall displacement was determined with 2DSTT. The mechanical parameters of the wall of the aorta in the FSI model were automatically updated in the calculation loop until the calculated and clinically measured wall movements were the same. RESULTS Results showed 98% accuracy of FSI compared to 2DSTT for AA and AAA (P > 0.05). The mean wall deformation for AA was 2.45 ± 0.12 mm and 2.49 ± 0.10 mm for FSI and 2DSTT, respectively (P = 0.40), whereas that for AAA was 2.84 ± 0.44 mm and 2.88 ± 0.45 mm, respectively (P = 0.83). The FSI analysis indicated that the α and β parameters for AA were equal to 14.35 ± 1.30 N⋅cm-2 and 9.33 ± 1.08 N⋅cm-2, respectively; and for AAA, α was 11.00 ± 0.49 N⋅cm-2 and β was 79.46 ± 4.32 N⋅cm-2. CONCLUSIONS The FSI technique may be successfully applied to assess the mechanical parameters of patient-specific aortic walls using computed tomography angiographic and 2DSTT measurements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Polanczyk
- Faculty of Process and Environmental Engineering, Lodz University of Technology, Lodz, Poland
| | - Michal Podgorski
- Department of Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Maciej Polanczyk
- Faculty of Process and Environmental Engineering, Lodz University of Technology, Lodz, Poland
| | - Natasha Veshkina
- Faculty of Process and Environmental Engineering, Lodz University of Technology, Lodz, Poland
| | - Ireneusz Zbicinski
- Faculty of Process and Environmental Engineering, Lodz University of Technology, Lodz, Poland
| | - Ludomir Stefanczyk
- Department of Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Christoph Neumayer
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hemodynamics and Wall Mechanics after Surgical Repair of Aortic Arch: Implication for Better Clinical Decisions. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/app9040807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Graft repair of aortic coarctation is commonly used to mimic the physiological aortic arch shape and function. Various graft materials and shapes have been adopted for the surgery. The goal of this work is to quantitatively assess the impact of graft materials and shapes in the hemodynamics and wall mechanics of the restored aortic arch and its correlation with clinical outcomes. A three-dimensional aortic arch model was reconstructed from magnetic resonance images. The fluid–structure interaction (FSI) analysis was performed to characterize the hemodynamics and solid wall mechanics of the repaired aortic arch. Two graft shapes (i.e., a half-moon shape and a crescent one) were considered. Material choices of the aortic arch repair included three commonly used graft materials (i.e., polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) synthetic graft, CorMatrix extracellular matrix, and pulmonary homograft) as well as one native tissue serving as a control. The pathological hemodynamic parameters, in terms of the percentage area of low wall shear stress (WSS), high oscillatory shear index (OSI), and high relative residence time (RRT), were quantified to be associated with potential clinical outcomes. Results have shown that the peak von Mises stress for the aortic arch repaired by the crescent graft was 76% less than that of the half-moon graft. Flow disturbance and recirculation were also minimized with the crescent graft. Moreover, pathological hemodynamic parameters were significantly reduced with the crescent graft. The graft material mismatch with the surrounding tissue aggregated the stress concentration on the aortic wall, but had minimal impact on flow dynamics. The present work demonstrated the role and importance of the graft geometry and materials on hemodynamics and wall mechanics, which could guide optimal graft decisions towards better clinical outcomes.
Collapse
|
18
|
Blood flow patterns and pressure loss in the ascending aorta: A comparative study on physiological and aneurysmal conditions. J Biomech 2018; 76:152-159. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2018.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
|
19
|
Artificial Circulatory Model for Analysis of Human and Artificial Vessels. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/app8071017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
20
|
Krüger T, Oikonomou A, Schibilsky D, Lescan M, Bregel K, Vöhringer L, Schneider W, Lausberg H, Blumenstock G, Bamberg F, Schlensak C. Aortic elongation and the risk for dissection: the Tübingen Aortic Pathoanatomy (TAIPAN) project†. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2018; 51:1119-1126. [PMID: 28329082 DOI: 10.1093/ejcts/ezx005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We measured aortic dimensions, particularly length parameters, using 3D imaging with the aim of refining the risk-morphology for Stanford type A aortic dissection (TAD). METHODS Computer tomography angiography studies were analysed using the curved multiplanar reformats. At defined landmarks, the diameters and lengths of aortic segments were recorded. Three groups were compared retrospectively: patients actually suffering from a TAD (TAD-group; n = 150), patients before suffering a TAD (preTAD-group n = 15) and a healthy control group ( n = 215). Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROCs) were analysed (control versus preTAD) to study the diagnostic value of the individual variables. RESULTS Median diameters of preTAD (43 mm) and TAD (50 mm) aortas were significantly ( P < 0.001) larger than those of the control group (35 mm). Ninety-three percent of preTAD and 68% of TAD aortas were less than 55 mm in the mid-ascending aorta. The ascending aorta and the aortic arch were significantly longer in both preTAD and TAD aortas compared to control aortas ( P < 0.001); in the control aortas the central line distance from the aortic valve to the brachiocephalic trunk was 93 mm. In preTAD aortas, it was 111 mm, and it was 117 mm in TAD aortas ( P < 0.001). In ROC analysis, the area under the curve was 0.912 for the ascending diameter and 0.787 for the ascending and arch lengths. CONCLUSIONS TAD-prediction based on the aortic diameter is ineffective. Besides circumferential dilatation, ascending aorta elongation precedes TAD and appears to be a useful additional parameter for prognostication. We propose a diagnostic score involving ascending aorta diameter and length.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Krüger
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Alexandre Oikonomou
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - David Schibilsky
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Mario Lescan
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Katharina Bregel
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Luise Vöhringer
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Wilke Schneider
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Henning Lausberg
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Gunnar Blumenstock
- Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Applied Biometry, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Fabian Bamberg
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christian Schlensak
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lescan M, Veseli K, Oikonomou A, Walker T, Lausberg H, Blumenstock G, Bamberg F, Schlensak C, Krüger T. Aortic Elongation and Stanford B Dissection: The Tübingen Aortic Pathoanatomy (TAIPAN) Project. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2017; 54:164-169. [PMID: 28663040 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejvs.2017.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND Aortic elongation has not yet been considered as a potential risk factor for Stanford type B dissection (TBD). The role of both aortic elongation and dilatation in patients with TBD was evaluated. METHODS The aortic morphology of a healthy control group (n = 236) and patients with TBD (n = 96) was retrospectively examined using three dimensional computed tomography imaging. Curved multiplanar reformats were used to examine aortic diameters at defined landmarks and aortic segment lengths. RESULTS Diameters at all landmarks were significantly larger in the TBD group. The greatest diameter difference (56%) was measured in dissected descending aortas (p < .001). The segment with the most considerable difference between the study groups with regard to elongation was the non-dissected aortic arch of patients with TBD (36%; p < .001). Elongation in the aortic arch was accompanied by a diameter increase of 21% (p < .001). In receiver-operating curve analysis, the area under the curve was .85 for the diameter and .86 for the length of the aortic arch. CONCLUSIONS In addition to dilatation, aortic arch elongation is associated with the development of TBD. The diameter and length of the non-dissected aortic arch may be predictive for TBD and may possibly be used for risk assessment in the future. This study provides the basis for further prospective evaluation of these parameters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Lescan
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - K Veseli
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - A Oikonomou
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - T Walker
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - H Lausberg
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - G Blumenstock
- Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Applied Biometry, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - F Bamberg
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Centre Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - C Schlensak
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - T Krüger
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|