Multivariate Analysis of Risk Factors of Cerebral Infarction in 439 Patients Undergoing Thoracic Endovascular Aneurysm Repair

Physician Modified Fenestrated Endografts for Endovascular Aortic Arch Repair in Zone 0

OBJECTIVE

This multicentre study aimed to assess the early and midterm outcomes of physician modified fenestrated endografts (PMEGs) for endovascular aortic arch repair in zone 0.

METHODS

Between 2018 and 2022, a retrospective study was conducted in three centres of consecutive patients undergoing endovascular aortic arch repair in zone 0 with PMEGs. Endpoints included technical success, 30 day mortality rate, major adverse events, secondary interventions, stent stability, target vessel patency, and overall survival.

RESULTS

A total of 54 patients (mean age 63 years; 45 males) with aortic arch pathology were included, comprising aortic dissections (n = 32; 59%) and aortic arch aneurysms (n = 22; 41%). Technical success was 98%. One patient died from stroke within 30 days. Major adverse events included stroke (n = 4; 7%), retrograde type A dissection (RTAD) (n = 3; 6%), and acute kidney injury (n = 2; 4%). During a median follow up of 12 months, there were two deaths (4%) of unknown cause at one month and 1.5 months, and no aortic related death. Type Ia, type Ic, and type IIIc endoleaks were observed in two (4%), three (6%), and two (4%) patients, respectively. No vessel stenosis was observed. Re-intervention was required in 10 patients (19%). Estimates of overall survival, freedom from secondary intervention, and freedom from target vessel instability at one year were 94.2% (standard error [SE] 3.3%), 81.8% (SE 6.0%), and 92.0% (SE 4.5%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study has demonstrated the efficacy of PMEGs for zone 0 endovascular aortic arch repair, with acceptable technical success and mortality rates. Stroke, RTAD, and re-intervention rates remain a concern for endovascular therapy. A larger population and long term outcomes are required to assess the safety and durability of this technique as a beneficial choice for endovascular aortic arch repair in specialised centres.

Descending thoracic aortic mural ulceration is associated with postoperative spinal cord ischemia after branched endovascular aortic aneurysm repair

OBJECTIVE

Paraplegia is one of the most feared complications after thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair. The purpose of this study is to determine whether aortic thrombus characteristics are associated with spinal cord ischemia (SCI) after branched endovascular aneurysm repair (BEVAR).

METHODS

From April 2011 to April 2020, 62 patients underwent elective BEVAR for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm and pararenal aortic aneurysms using a low-profile device and had a complete preoperative computed tomography angiography of the aorta from the sinotubular junction to the aortic bifurcation. Aortic thrombus was evaluated for thrombus thickness ≥5 mm, thrombus >2/3 of aortic circumference, and the presence of an ulcer-like thrombus. One point was assigned at each 5 mm axial image if all 3 criteria were met, resulting in a total "shaggy score" for the entire aorta. Data on demographics, procedural details, and outcomes were collected prospectively. All patients underwent a standard spinal cord protection protocol, including routine cerebrospinal fluid drainage. In July 2016, an insulin infusion protocol (IIP) was initiated to maintain postoperative blood glucose levels <120 mg/dL for 48 hours. The primary clinical end point was postoperative SCI.

RESULTS

10 (16%) patients developed postoperative SCI: 6 with transient paraparesis, 2 with persistent paraparesis, and 2 with persistent paraplegia. Patients with SCI were older, had higher shaggy scores, and were less likely to have been on an IIP. There were no significant differences in demographics, aneurysm type, or operative parameters. In a logistic multivariate regression model for SCI, age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.2 [1.1-1.4], P = .02) and shaggy score (OR: 1.2 [1.1-1.4], P = .02) were independently associated with increased risk of SCI, whereas treatment with the IIP was associated with lower risk of SCI (OR: 0.04 [0.006-0.50], P = .05). Of the individual components of the shaggy score, higher descending thoracic aortic ulcer scores were the most strongly associated with postoperative SCI (P = .009).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative characterization of aortic wall thrombus is an important adjunctive tool for individualized clinical decision-making and patient counseling about the risk of SCI after BEVAR.

Utilizing a long sheath to minimize atheroma manipulation (minimal manipulation approach) during Zone 1 and 2 thoracic endovascular aortic repair with a shaggy aorta

We have adopted a simple and reproducible approach, "minimal manipulation approach," since January 2021 in five patients to minimize the risk of thromboembolic events during Zone 1 and 2 thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVARs) with shaggy aorta. The approach consists of two parts: ① Use of a 65-cm-long sheath (dry seal) to deliver the endografts without touching the protruding atheroma. Covering the atheroma with the first endograft delivered at Zone 3 to the mid-descending aorta (paving the aorta), and second endograft insertion and deployment through the paved aorta with first endograft. ② Protection of the left subclavian artery using balloon catheter during TEVAR. No in-hospital mortality was recorded, and none of the patients had stroke, spinal cord ischemia, or distal embolic events.

Risk of Stroke with Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair of the Aortic Arch

BACKGROUND

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) involving the aortic arch is increasingly being performed and novel endografts have been developed for this procedure, but the association of stroke and relative risk of procedural techniques remains unclear. This study evaluates the procedural risk factors for stroke and mortality with zone 0-2 TEVAR.

METHODS

The Society for Vascular Surgery Vascular Quality Initiative registry was queried for patients who underwent TEVAR with proximal landing in zone 0-2 from 2013 to 2022. Emergent and ruptured cases were excluded. Primary exposure variables included proximal seal zone (0-2) and branch vessel revascularization technique: open debranching/bypass, total endovascular incorporation, or combination (at least 1 branch open and 1 branch endovascular). The primary outcome was perioperative inhospital stroke and the secondary outcome was inhospital mortality. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

In total, 4,355 cases were analyzed with 350 in zone 0 (8%), 513 in zone 1 (12%), and 3,492 in zone 2 (80%). For zone 0, 1, and 2, the stroke rates were 11.1%, 5.3% and 4.7% (P < 0.0001) and inhospital mortality rates were 6.9%, 5.3% and 3.5% (P = 0.002), respectively. Branch vessel revascularization technique was associated with stroke in zone 0 with a 3-fold higher stroke rate for total endovascular incorporation of branches compared to combination and open techniques (P = 0.002). On multivariable analysis, zone 0 was independently associated with a greater than 2-fold increased odds of stroke compared to zone 2 (95% CI 1.4-3.2, P = 0.0008).

CONCLUSIONS

Stroke rate was 2-3 times higher for zone 0 TEVAR compared to zones 1 and 2. Within zone 0, total endovascular branch incorporation was associated with a 3-fold higher stroke rate than open and combination techniques. Future device design modifications and novel endovascular strategies for stroke prevention are required to make total endovascular repair of the aortic arch an acceptable alternative to combination and open debranching/bypass techniques.

Avoiding Stroke in Patients Undergoing Endovascular Aortic Arch Repair: JACC Review Topic of the Week

As the bottleneck of endovascular aortic arch repair, early postoperative stroke remains a devastating complication in high-risk patients and a critical concern for the development of optimal endovascular techniques and devices. The incidence of early postoperative stroke varies widely among currently available endovascular techniques and devices, with reported rates ranging from 0.0% to 42.9%, and is significantly influenced by the severity of the patient's preexisting aortic atherosclerotic burden, air released from the endovascular device, and a variety of factors leading to cerebral perfusion insufficiency. Currently, preidentification of high-risk patients and careful perioperative management appear to play a critical role in reducing stroke incidence. Specific intraoperative prevention methods are still lacking, but embolic protection devices and carbon dioxide or high-volume saline flushing of endovascular devices appear promising. Detailed preoperative stroke risk stratification and screening for optimal endovascular techniques and devices for aortic arch treatment are unmet clinical needs.

Thoracic Endovascular Repair for Aortic Arch Pathologies with Surgeon Modified Fenestrated Stent Grafts: A Multicentre Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the outcome of thoracic endovascular repair (TEVAR) for aortic arch pathologies with surgeon modified fenestrated stent grafts.

METHODS

A multicentre, retrospective study consisting of consecutive patients from seven centres treated with surgeon modified fenestrated stent grafts for aortic arch pathologies was conducted. A technique to align fenestrations and supra-aortic vessels was applied. Rates of technical success, mortality, complications, and re-interventions were evaluated.

RESULTS

Between February 2016 and January 2020, 513 consecutive patients with aortic arch pathologies received TEVAR with surgeon modified fenestrated stent grafts. The technical success rate was 98.6% (n = 506). In total, 626 fenestrations were created to revascularise 684 branch arteries of the aortic arch. There were 13 deaths and 15 re-interventions within 30 days of the operation. The estimated clinical success rate at 30 days was 94.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 92.4 - 96.4), the estimated survival at 30 days was 97.5% (95% CI 96.1 - 98.9), and the estimated freedom from re-intervention at 30 days was 97.1% (95% CI 95.7 - 98.5). The median follow up was 27 (interquartile range 13 - 31) months. During follow up, there were five aortic related deaths, three non-aortic related deaths, and four deaths of unknown cause. Eighteen patients underwent re-intervention. The estimated clinical success rate at 24 months was 88.2% (95% CI 85.5 - 91.0), the estimated survival at 24 months was 94.9% (95% CI 92.7 - 97.1), and the estimated freedom from re-intervention at 24 months was 93.1% (95% CI 91.0 - 95.3). In total, 18 cases of stroke were recorded, including 12 within 30 days and six during follow up; six cases of retrograde type A aortic dissection were recorded, including five within 30 days and one during the follow up.

CONCLUSION

TEVAR with surgeon modified fenestrated stent grafts for the treatment of aortic arch pathologies provides acceptable outcomes. Further follow up is required to confirm the benefits of this approach.

Use of Embolic Protection Devices during Hybrid Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair for a Shaggy Aorta: A Case Report

An 87-year-old man presented with a saccular aneurysm at the proximal descending thoracic aorta. As computed tomography revealed a shaggy aorta, we planned hybrid thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) with embolic protection devices (EPDs) in both internal carotid arteries to prevent a cerebrovascular accident. We inserted an Emboshield NAV⁶ Embolic Protection System (Abbott Vascular, Abbott Park, IL, USA) into both internal carotid arteries before performing the TEVAR procedure. The patient was discharged from the hospital on postoperative day 4 without any neurological complications.

Total Debranching Plus Antegrade Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair without Side Clamping in a Patient with Arch Aneurysm and Ascending Aorta Calcification

A high-risk patient with aortic arch aneurysm, associated with severe calcification of the ascending aorta and iliac arteries, was treated with total debranching and antegrade thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) via the ascending aorta. Proximal anastomosis for a triple-branched graft to the ascending aorta was performed without side clamping using the "real chimney technique." After bypassing the supra-aortic branches, a TEVAR was performed in an antegrade fashion through the ascending aorta. This case suggests that the approaches mentioned above should be considered in patients with arch aneurysms and severe calcified degeneration.

Estimating the "Pull" on a Pullthrough Wire: A Pilot Study

Objective

Pullthrough/body floss wires are used to track endovascular devices across tortuous aorto-iliac anatomy encountered during endovascular repair of abdominal or thoracic aortic aneurysms. The tension imparted on such wires is arbitrary and has never been quantified. This pilot study attempted to quantify the tension used to stiffen the floppy hydrophilic wires typically used in such a scenario.

Methods

Two linked experiments were undertaken, the first by tasking 13 blinded vascular surgeons (eight male, five female; mean age 36 ± 11 years, including nine trainees) with pulling a long floppy hydrophilic wire (Radifocus Guidewire M Stiff, Terumo UK, Bagshot, Surrey, UK) attached at the other end to a horizontally configured industrial scale (HDN-N Hanging Scale, Kern & Sohn GmbH, Balingen, Germany), to simulate what they individually felt was an “appropriate” tension; the second by using the derived average tensioning force to set up a pullthrough wire within a rigid life like aorto-iliac model to assess whether a test device (16F Sentrant Introducer Sheath, Medtronic Limited, Watford, UK) could be delivered over such a tensioned wire in both brachiofemoral and femorofemoral configurations.

Results

The mean tension exerted by the group on the wire was 38.3 ± 14.8 N (equivalent to 3.9 kgf). Pullthrough wire tensioning was undertaken by fixing one end and applying a 3.9 kg weight at the other. The test device was successfully deployed into the infrarenal aortic position and also across the aortic bifurcation, via brachiofemoral and femorofemoral pullthrough configurations, respectively.

Conclusion

Successful test device deliveries suggest that a minimum tension equivalent to almost 4 kgf applied to a floppy wire can provide “stiffeningˮ to allow device tracking across tortuous aorto-iliac anatomy. More studies are needed to ascertain whether lower tensions can be applied; these results may help provide a platform for other such studies depending on configuration, aortic geometry, and device or wire/tension characteristics.

•

Pullthrough wires are used at EVAR/TEVAR when tortuous anatomy is encountered

•

The tension on such pullthrough wires has not been quantified

•

Typically floppy hydrophilic wires are used to traverse such tortuous anatomy

•

Floppy wires become the functional equivalent of stiff wires when tensioned

•

This study for the first time quantifies the tension forces on pullthrough wires

Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair in "Shaggy Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms"

OBJECTIVES

To report the outcomes of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for shaggy thoracic aortic aneurysms (STA).

METHODS

It is a single center, retrospective, observational, cohort study. Data were collected prospectively between January 2005 and May 2019. STA was defined, based on computed tomography angiography findings, as the presence of an irregular/ulcerated atheroma protruding and/or thrombus thickness ≥ 5 mm protruding into the aortic lumen, and/or occupying more than two thirds of the circumference of the aortic diameter axially. Primary outcomes were early (≤ 30 days) and late survival and freedom from major complication due to end-organ or peripheral ischemic embolization.

RESULTS

Nine (2.3%) of 391 patients met the inclusion criteria. Mean age was 71 years ± 10 (range 55-83). Mean aneurysm diameter was 68 mm ± 0.5 (range 60-75). Four patients presented symptomatic: rupture (n = 2), blue toe syndrome (n = 2). TEVAR was performed in 7 of the 9 patients. Operative-related embolization occurred in 1 patient (transient ischemic attack and acute kidney injury). In-hospital mortality was observed in 1 patient following spinal cord ischemia and multiple organ failure development. Median follow-up was 48 months (IQR 5-84). Freedom from major complication due to end-organ or peripheral ischemic embolization was achieved in all patients. No patient developed further localization of STA in the proximal or distal aorta, and did not experience reno-visceral or peripheral atheroembolization episodes.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk of atheroembolism in STA is still threatening but TEVAR proved to be an effective and durable treatment in this high-risk cohort.

Single-center midterm results with the low-profile Zenith Alpha thoracic endovascular stent graft

OBJECTIVE

The analysis of endovascular treatment of thoracic aortic diseases using new low-profile stent grafts in large series is crucial to understanding the durability of these devices. The present study reports the midterm outcomes of a single-center experience using the Zenith Alpha thoracic endovascular stent graft.

METHODS

The outcomes of 270 procedures performed on 262 patients (197 men; mean age, 70.5 ± 9.5 years) using the Zenith Alpha thoracic endovascular stent graft from November 2013 to December 2019 for different thoracic aortic diseases were analyzed. The primary endpoints were 30-day clinical success and midterm (5-year) clinical success. The secondary endpoints were the adverse event rate at 30 days and midterm and access- and device-related complications. The follow-up of surviving patients was performed using computed tomography angiography and office visits at 1, 6, and 12 months and annually thereafter. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed for overall survival, and freedom from thoracic aortic endovascular repair-related mortality and related reinterventions.

RESULTS

The overall 30-day mortality was 5.2% (2.5% for elective and 30.8% for nonelective cases). Type I endoleaks were identified in six patients. The 30-day primary technical and clinical success rates were 97.8% and 92.6%, respectively. Femoral cutdown was used in 41.1% of cases and percutaneous access in 58.5%. The rate of femoral artery complications after the percutaneous approach was 5.1%, with the need for surgical conversion in 1.9%. The stroke rate was 4.1% (major stroke, 2.2%), and the spinal cord ischemia rate was 3.7% (permanent paraplegia, 0.7%). Of the 248 survivors, 239 complied with the follow-up protocol with adequate computed tomography angiograms available images. Overall follow-up survival was 94.0% at 1 year, 91.6% at 2 years, 88.9% at 3 years, and 88.5% at 5 years. The unplanned secondary endovascular procedure rate was 5.3%. No stent fractures or new-onset type I endoleaks due to stent graft migration were observed in the study cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

The midterm outcomes of this new generation of low-profile devices were satisfactory. The reported low incidence of secondary procedures and the absence of migrations are promising for the long-term durability of these devices.

The Shaggy Aorta Syndrome: An Updated Review

BACKGROUND

Shaggy aorta (SA) depicts the severe aortic surface degeneration, extremely friable, and likely to cause spontaneous peripheral and visceral embolization or during catheterization, aortic manipulation, surgery, or minimally invasive procedures. This study aims to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on this disease.

METHODS

Potentially eligible studies to be included were identified by searching the following databases: CENTRAL Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, MEDLINE, and CINAHL, using a combination of subject headings and text words to identify relevant studies: (Shaggy aorta) OR (aortic embolization) OR (aortic embolism) OR (aortic thrombus) OR (aortic plaque). From a total of 29,111 abstracts, and after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, we considered 60 studies for inclusion in this review.

RESULTS

Appropriate measurement and assessment of the aortic wall are pivotal in the modern era, in particular when percutaneous procedures are performed, as SA has been identified as an independent risk factor for spinal cord injury, mesenteric embolization, and cerebral infarction after endovascular aortic repair. Furthermore, SA increases the rate of cerebral complications during transcatheter aortic valve implantation.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, prompt diagnosis of SA syndrome and appropriate guidelines on the management of these conditions may help physicians to better assess the patient risk and to minimize the dreadful-related complications.

Influence of butyphthalide combined with urinary kallikrein in ACI treatment on neuro-cytokines and vascular endothelial function and its clinical effect

Objective: To study the influence of butyphthalide combined with urinary kallikrein in acute cerebral infarction (ACI) treatment on neuro-cytokines and indicators of vascular endothelial function, observe the curative effect and adverse effects, and discuss its safety and feasibility.Method: 110 ACI patients were chosen as the objects, and classified into observation group (55 cases) and control group (55 cases) according to the method of random number table. Butyphthalide injection combined with urinary kallikrein was adopted for the observation group based on conventional treatment, while cinepazide maleate injection combined with alprostadil injection was applied for the control group based on conventional treatment. The following indicators of both groups were compared before and after treatment: neurotrophic factor (NTF), nerve growth factor (NGF), neuron specific enolase (NSE); content of CXC chemotactic factor ligand 16 (CXCL16), soluble CD ligand (CD40L), Fibulin-5 and high mobility group box B1 (HMGB1); the content of indicators of vascular endothelial function including plasma endothelin -1 (ET-1) and no therapeutic effects and adverse effects were recorded.Results: NSE of both groups after treatment decreased obviously, and the content of NTF and NGF increased obviously. NSE content of observation group was lower than that of control group. NTF content and NGF content of observation group were higher than those of control group. The differences had statistical significance (p < 0.05). The levels of CXCL16, CD40L, Fibulin-5 and HMGB1 declined obviously, compared with pre-treatment, and the levels of observation groups were significantly lower than those of control grip. The differences had statistical significance (p < 0.05). ET-1 level rose significantly after treatment, and NO level declined obviously after treatment. ET-1 level of observation group was significantly higher than that of control group, and NO level of observation group was significantly lower than that of control group. The difference had statistical significance (p < 0.05). Clinical effect of observation group was significantly higher than that of control group. The difference had statistical significance (p < 0.05). The comparison difference of both groups in the occurrence rate of adverse effects had no statistical significance (p > 0.05).Conclusion: The application of butyphthalide combined with urinary kallikrein in ACI treatment can effectively inhibit secretion and release of neuro-cytokines, and improve patients' vascular endothelial function, with significant treatment effect and high safety. Therefore, it deserves to be promoted clinically.

Single-Stage Hybrid Arch Repair for Patients with Shaggy Aorta

Operating on extended arch aneurysms that contain severe atherosclerotic plaques is difficult. In such cases, the incidence of intraoperative multiple embolization is very high. We applied single-stage hybrid arch repair, which involved ascending aorta replacement and debranching of arch vessels, consecutively with endovascular repair for two patients. This technique was developed to prevent embolization of atherosclerotic plaques during cardiopulmonary bypass, and abrasion of the plaques during thoracic endovascular repair. Both patients recovered without embolic complications.

Prognostic impact of preoperative serum alkaline phosphatase level on a composite of morbidity and mortality after thoracic endovascular aortic repair: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is related to vascular calcification and is known to have a prognostic impact in various cohorts. However, evidence in patients undergoing thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is lacking. Thus, we hypothesized that preoperative serum ALP level could be used for predicting adverse events after TEVAR.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 167 patients who underwent TEVAR between February 2013 and December 2016. Patients were classified into tertiles according to preoperative ALP level (<69, 69-92, and >92 IU/L). The composite of morbidity and mortality (composite MM) was defined as the presence of one or more of the following: myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, dialysis requirement, pulmonary complication, infection, and mortality within 1 year after TEVAR. The incidence of composite MM was compared among the 3 tertiles, and stepwise logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the predictors for composite MM.

RESULTS

The incidence of composite MM was 14.5% in the first tertile group, 17.9% in the second tertile group, and 35.7% in the third tertile group (P = .016). The third tertile of ALP level (odds ratio [OR] 1.766, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.074-2.904, P = .025) and emergency TEVAR (OR 2.369, 95% CI 1.050-5.346, P = .038) remained as independent predictors of composite MM.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data showed an independent relationship between high preoperative ALP levels and adverse outcomes in patients undergoing TEVAR. This finding might suggest a potential role of ALP level as a risk stratification marker.

Balloon protection of the left subclavian artery in debranching thoracic endovascular aortic repair

OBJECTIVES

Since 2012, we have routinely applied balloon protection of the proximal left subclavian artery to prevent embolic events through the left vertebral artery during debranching thoracic endovascular aortic repair. This study aimed to study the effectiveness of balloon protection of the proximal left subclavian artery.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of 157 patients who underwent debranching thoracic endovascular aortic repair between 2007 and 2017. Of these, 71 patients for whom balloon protection of the proximal left subclavian artery was used were assigned to the balloon protection of the proximal left subclavian artery group (58 men; age: 78 ± 6.7 years), and 86 patients were assigned to the control group (66 men; age: 78 ± 8.9 years). A total of 51 patients from each group were matched by their propensity scores to adjust for differences in the patients' characteristics.

RESULTS

Perioperative stroke was significantly lower in the balloon protection of the proximal left subclavian artery group than in the control group (0%: 0/71 vs 7.9%: 7/86, P = .014). Freedom from all causes of mortality at 2 and 4 years was significantly higher in the balloon protection of the proximal left subclavian artery group compared with the control group (93%/76% vs 77%/59%, P = .015). Freedom from aortic death at 2 and 4 years was similar in both groups (97%/97% vs 91%/86%, P = .094). Propensity score matching yielded similar results of better freedom from all causes of mortality in the balloon protection of the proximal left subclavian artery group (93%/93% vs 81%/63%, P = .017) and equivalent aortic death in both groups (95%/95% vs 92%/88%, P = .30).

CONCLUSIONS

Debranching thoracic endovascular aortic repair using balloon protection of the proximal left subclavian artery demonstrated more appropriate early and late outcomes. Evaluation using propensity score matching enhanced the efficacy of balloon protection of the proximal left subclavian artery.

Endovascular Treatment Options for the Aortic Arch

Endovascular aortic repair to treat aortic arch abnormality has rapidly expanded in the last 2 decades, and surgeons now have options to treat patients who are poor candidates for open surgery. The devices and techniques should be tailored to the extension of the aortic abnormality and anatomy of the individual. Recent studies demonstrate promising results with branched endografts, but one of the major drawbacks of the devices is that considerable time is required to prepare the custom-made graft, which may not be available for emergent or urgent cases. Introduction of commercially available devices is forthcoming.

Endovascular Treatment of Various Aortic Pathologies: Review of the Latest Data and Technologies

The technologies and innovations applicable to endovascular treatment for complex aortic pathologies have progressed rapidly over the last two decades. Although the initial outcomes of an endovascular aortic repair have been excellent, as long-term data became available, complications including endoleaks, endograft migration, and endograft infection have become apparent and are of concern. Previously, the indication for endovascular therapy was restricted to descending thoracic aortic aneurysms and abdominal aortic aneurysms. However, its indication has expanded along with the improvement of techniques and devices, and currently, it has become possible to treat pararenal aortic aneurysms and Crawford type 4 thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) using the off-the-shelf devices. Additionally, custom-made devices allow for the treatment of arch or more extensive TAAAs. Endovascular treatment is applied not only to aneurysms but also to acute/chronic dissections. However, long-term outcomes are still unclear. This article provides an overview of available devices and the results of endovascular treatment for various aortic pathologies.

Cerebral embolic protection during endovascular arch replacement

Despite excellent results in high volume centers, open repair of aortic arch pathology is highly invasive, and can result in significant morbidity and mortality in high risk patients. Near-total and hybrid approaches to aortic arch disease states have emerged as an alternative for patients deemed moderate to high risk for conventional repair. Advantages of these approaches include avoidance of extracorporeal circulation and hypothermic circulatory arrest as well as avoidance of cross clamping, all of which are not well tolerated in high risk patients. Anatomically high-risk patients with anastomotic aneurysms from previous arch reconstruction may also benefit from these less invasive approaches. Medical devices designed specifically for the aortic arch are developing at a rapid pace and continue to evolve. Dedicated devices for zone 0-2 aortic arch repair are currently available under special access or being studied in clinical trials. Unfortunately, stroke continues to be the Achilles heel of endovascular approaches to the aortic arch, with cerebral embolism being the culprit in the majority of such cases. This perspective article describes the epidemiology, procedures, and mitigation strategies for current near-total and hybrid approaches to aortic arch pathology, and specifically addresses current means of embolic protection and future direction.

Effects of chronic statin use on 30-day major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events after thoracic endovascular aortic repair

BACKGROUND

Cardiac and cerebrovascular complications are major causes of adverse outcomes following thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). The benefits of statins have been established, but little is known about their impact on patients undergoing TEVAR. We investigated whether chronic statin use protected against early postoperative major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) after TEVAR.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 211 patients who underwent TEVAR between February 2013 and March 2017 classified into two groups, those with acute aortic syndrome (AAS, N.=79) and those without (non-AAS, N.=132). Patients were subdivided according to preoperative statin therapy for ≥3 months or not. The primary endpoint was 30-day MACCE, defined as myocardial infarction, stroke, arrhythmia, cardiovascular death, or cerebrovascular death. Acute kidney injury (AKI) occurrence within 48 hours was also evaluated. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for MACCEs and AKI.

RESULTS

Incidence of MACCEs (1% vs. 11%, P=0.019) was significantly lower in the statin group than in the no-statin group in non-AAS patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed statin use (odds ratio 0.85, 95% confidence interval 0.01-0.95, P=0.046) as an independent predictor for MACCE in non-AAS patients. The AKI incidence was significantly higher in the statin group than in the no-statin group in AAS patients (44% vs. 15%, P=0.018).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing TEVAR, chronic statin use was associated with reduced 30-day MACCEs in non-AAS patients, but not in AAS patients. It might rather be associated with increased risk of AKI in AAS patients.

Result of Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair for Patients with Esophageal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Bleeding from the thoracic aorta is potentially fatal in patients with advanced esophageal cancer. Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) was recently applied for aortic invasion by esophageal cancer. However, only a few case reports have been published. This study was performed to clarify the effectiveness and safety of TEVAR for patients with advanced esophageal cancer.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 18 patients who underwent TEVAR for esophageal cancer. We also performed a literature search and reviewed 21 similar cases.

RESULTS

From 2007 to 2016, 10 patients were treated on an emergent basis for aortic hemorrhage (salvage group) and 8 patients underwent urgent prophylactic surgery (prophylactic group). Hemostasis was achieved in all cases. One (10%) patient in the salvage group died of aspiration pneumonia on postoperative day 1, while all patients in the prophylactic group survived for >1 month. The median survival period in the salvage and prophylactic group was 3.25 and 11.10 months, respectively. The longest survivor was still alive 9 years after TEVAR and chemoradiotherapy. No fatal adverse events or negative impacts on subsequent treatment for esophageal cancer occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

TEVAR is feasible, safe, and effective in preventing fatal aortic hemorrhage secondary to esophageal cancer invasion, although it is palliative in most cases. Because the outcomes of emergent TEVAR after bleeding tended to be worse in the salvage than in prophylactic group, prophylactic TEVAR may be considered a viable treatment option for patients with aortic invasion by advanced esophageal cancer.

Assessment of aortic wall thrombus predicts outcomes of endovascular repair of complex aortic aneurysms using fenestrated and branched endografts

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to investigate the correlation between atherothrombotic aortic wall thrombus (AWT) and clinical outcomes in patients treated by fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair (F-BEVAR) and present a new classification system for assessment of AWT burden.

METHODS

The clinical data of 301 patients treated for pararenal and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) by F-BEVAR was reviewed. The study excluded 89 patients with extent I to III TAAA because of extensive laminated thrombus within the aneurysm sac. Computed tomography angiograms were analyzed in all patients to determine the location, extent, and severity of atherothrombotic AWT. The aorta was divided into three segments: ascending and arch (A), thoracic (B) and renal-mesenteric (C). Volumetric measurements (cm³) of AWT were performed using TeraRecon software (TeraRecon Inc, Foster City, Calif). These volumes were used to create an AWT index by dividing the AWT volume from the total aortic volume. A classification system was proposed using objective assessment of the number of affected segments, thrombus type, thickness, area, and circumference. Clinical outcomes included 30-day mortality, neurologic and gastrointestinal complications, renal events (Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss of kidney function, End-stage renal disease [RIFLE]), and solid organ infarction.

RESULTS

The study included 212 patients, 169 men (80%) and 43 women (20%), with a mean age of 76 ± 7 years. A total of 700 renal-mesenteric arteries were incorporated (3.1 ± 1 vessels/patient). AWT was classified as mild in 98 patients (46%) and was considered moderate or severe in 114 (54%). There was one death (0.5%) at 30 days. Solid organ infarction was present in 50 patients (24%), and acute kidney injury occurred in 45 patients (21%) by RIFLE criteria. An association with higher AWT indices was found for time to resume enteral diet (P = .0004) and decline in renal function (P = .0003). Patients with acute kidney injury 2 by RIFLE criterion had significantly higher (P = .002) AWT index scores in segment B. Spinal cord injury occurred in three patients (1.4%) and stroke in four (1.9%), but were not associated with the AWT index. Severity of AWT using the new proposed classification system correlated with the AWT index in all three segments (P < .001). Any of the end points occurred in 35% of the patients with mild and in 53% of those with moderate or severe AWT (P = .016).

CONCLUSIONS

AWT predicts solid organ infarction, renal function deterioration, and longer time to resume enteral diet after F-BEVAR of pararenal and type IV TAAAs. Evaluation of AWT should be part of preoperative planning and decision making for selection of the ideal method of treatment in these patients.

Exploring inside a shaggy aorta using non-obstructive angioscopy

A shaggy aorta is reportedly related to atheromatous embolisation, which causes serious ischaemic damage to various organs. However, its characteristics are poorly understood. Non-obstructive angioscopy (NOA) has been developed to safely detect aortic plaques and injuries. A 70-year-old woman who was found to have a shaggy aorta on CT angiography underwent NOA for precise evaluation of vulnerable aortic plaques and injuries inside the aorta. Vulnerable aortic plaques included puff-like ruptures, chandelier-like ruptures and erosions seen throughout the aorta. Aortic injuries included flaps, slits, subintimal bleeding, dissection and multilayered partitions. The patient had no embolic symptoms or an elevated eosinophil count, estimated glomerular filtration rate or C reactive protein level, compared with the baseline. Various changes in spontaneous vulnerable plaques and injuries inside the aorta that were not apparent on CT were safely revealed on NOA. Thus, NOA may reveal findings indicative of spontaneous and postoperative atheromatous embolisation.