Early and mid-term results after endovascular repair of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms using the off-the-shelf multibranched t-Branch device: a national multi-center study

Objective: The multibranched off-the-shelf Zenith® t-Branch (Cook Medical, Bloomington, IN) device is commonly chosen for endovascular repair of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. The aim of this study was to report early and mid-term outcomes in all patients treated with the t-Branch in Norway; Design and Methods: A retrospective multicenter study with Norwegian centers performing complex endovascular aortic repair was undertaken. T-Branch patients from 2014 to 2020 were included. All postoperative computed tomography angiography images were reviewed, and demographic, anatomical, perioperative and follow-up data were analyzed; Results: Seventy patients were treated in a single-step (n = 55) or staged (n = 15) procedure. Symptomatic presentation was seen in 20 patients, six of which had a contained rupture. Technical success was 87% (n = 59), with failures caused by unsuccessful bridging of target vessels (n = 4), target vessel bleeding (n = 3), persisting type 1c endoleak (n = 1) and t-Branch malrotation (n = 1). 30-day mortality was 9% (n = 6) and was associated with high BMI (p = .038). The spinal cord ischemia rate was 21% (n = 15) and was associated with type II aneurysms (OR 5.4, 95% CI 1.1-26.7, p = .04), smoking (OR 6.0, 95% CI 1.3-27.6, p = .02) and intraoperative blood loss (OR 1.1, 95% CI 1.0-1.3, p = .01). Survival at one, two and three years was 84 ± 4%, 70 ± 6% and 67 ± 6%, respectively. Freedom from aortic-related reinterventions at one, two and three years was 80 ± 5%, 65 ± 7% and 50 ± 8%, respectively; Conclusion: The study showed low early mortality (9%) and satisfactory mid-term survival. Technical success was achieved in acceptable 87% of procedures. The rate of spinal cord ischemia was high, occurring in 21% of patients.

Unintended Exchange of Target Vessels for Celiac Trunk and Superior Mesenteric Artery Branches in Complex Endovascular Aortic Repair

PURPOSE

The treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) using branched endovascular aortic repair (BEVAR) is safe and effective. During deployment, the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) branch can unintentionally open into the celiac trunk (CT) ostium and switched catheterization of the SMA from the CT branch and the CT from the SMA branch can be used as an alternative technique in these cases. This study aimed to investigate the outcome of exchanging the intended target vessels (TVs) for the CT and SMA branches during BEVAR.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A single-center retrospective analysis of patients with TAAAs who underwent BEVAR, using off-the-shelf or custom-made devices (CMDs), with an unintended exchange of TVs for the CT and SMA branches was performed.

RESULTS

Between 2014 and 2023, 397 patients were treated with BEVAR for TAAA. Eighteen (4.5%) of those patients were treated with an exchange of TVs for the CT and SMA branches. T-branch was used in 9 cases (50%) and the remaining patients were treated with CMDs. Twelve patients were treated electively, 3 were symptomatic and 3 presented with rupture. Of 36 mesenteric TVs in those 18 patients, 34 (94%) were catheterized successfully, including all 18 SMAs and 16 of the 18 CTs. No branch stenosis or occlusion of the switched mesenteric TVs was detected during follow-up. During 30-day follow-up, 3 patients died and during a median follow-up of 3 (interquartile range [IQR]: 1-15) months 3 more patients died. None of the deaths or the 2 unintended reinterventions was induced by the mesenteric TV exchange. The median hospital stay was 14 (IQR: 9-22) days with a median of 4 (IQR: 2-11) days at the intensive care unit.

CONCLUSION

The exchange of the mesenteric TVs for the CT and SMA branches during BEVAR with off-the-shelf and CMD endografts is feasible with good TV patency and freedom from TV-related reinterventions. This alternative technique should be considered in selected cases when direct catheterization via the intended branch is deemed more time-consuming or not feasible.

CLINICAL IMPACT

This is the first description of using an exchange of target vessels for the celiac trunk and the superior mesenteric artery branches in patients with thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms undergoing BEVAR, using off-the-shelf or custom-made devices. The high success rate as well as the good clinical results without any branch stenosis or occlusion during follow-up highlight the feasibility of this alternative technique. It could help in challenging cases when catheterization of the intended target vessels is not possible or too time consuming, resulting in higher success rates of BEVAR and better clinical results.

Post-dissection Thoraco-abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Managed by Fenestrated or Branched Endovascular Aortic Repair

OBJECTIVE

Fenestrated or branched endovascular aortic repair (F/B-EVAR) is a valuable treatment in patients with chronic post-dissection thoraco-abdominal aneurysm (PD-TAAA). This study aimed to analyse early and follow up outcomes of F/B-EVAR in these patients.

METHODS

Thirty day and follow up outcomes of consecutive patients with PD-TAAA treated with F/B-EVAR in a tertiary centre over eight years were analysed retrospectively. All patients presenting with PD-TAAA and managed with F/B-EVAR were eligible. A modified Crawford's classification system was used. Thirty day mortality and major adverse event (MAE) rates were analysed. Time to event data were estimated with Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.

RESULTS

Fifty five patients (80% men, mean age 63.7 ± 7.7 years) were included: 12 (22%) were managed urgently; 25 (46%) for chronic type B aortic dissection; and the remainder for residual type A aortic dissection. Of these patients, 88% had undergone previous thoracic endovascular aortic repair. Prophylactic cerebrospinal fluid drainage (CSFD) was used in 91%. Fifteen (27%) patients were treated with F-EVAR, nine (16%) with fenestrations and branches, and 31 (56%) with B-EVAR. False lumen adjunctive procedures were used in 56%. Technical success was achieved in 96% of patients. The thirty day mortality rate was 7% and MAE rate was 20%. Spinal cord injury (SCI) grades 1 - 3 and grade 3 rates were 13% and 2%, respectively. Mean follow up was 33.0 ± 18.4 months. Survival and freedom from unscheduled re-intervention were 86% (standard error [SE] 5%) and 55% (SE 8%) at 24 months, respectively. Freedom from target vessel stenosis and occlusion was higher in F-EVAR at the 12 month follow up (p = .006) compared with B-EVAR.

CONCLUSION

Fenestrated or branched endovascular repairs in patients with PD-TAAA showed high technical success, with acceptable early mortality and MAE rates. The SCI rate was > 10%, despite CSFD use and staged procedures. Almost a half of patients needed an unscheduled re-intervention within 24 months after F/B-EVAR.

Salvage of an Incomplete Sandwich With a Covered Celiac Trunk and a "Floating" Superior Mesenteric Artery Stent in a Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm

PURPOSE

To report a case of a patient with a large thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) extent V treated with a custom-made fenestrated and branched endovascular repair (F/B-EVAR) after a failed and incomplete attempt of a Sandwich repair technique.

REPORT

An 83-year-old patient was referred to our department after a failed attempt at endovascular repair of type V TAAA with a sandwich technique. The celiac trunk was inadvertently covered with the first endograft and a covered long superior mesenteric artery stent was placed and left facing upward inside the aorta. We performed a staged repair, by first catheterizing and stenting the celiac trunk and bringing it under and inside the main aortic endograft. In interval, a F/B-EVAR was performed using a bimodular custom-made device (CMD) with a proximal 2 branch module for the celiac trunk and superior mesenteric artery and distal module with fenestrations for both renal arteries. The intervention was successful, and the follow-up was uneventful at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Re-intervention after failed endovascular attempts of TAAA repair are technically challenging and require advanced endovascular techniques. The ability to construct CMDs allowed to extend repair to our patient which had severe anatomical constraints for other techniques.

Additional Aortic Coverage With an Off The Shelf, Multibranched Endograft Compared With Custom Made Devices For Endovascular Repair of Pararenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

Pararenal abdominal aortic aneurysms (p-AAA) require complex endovascular aortic repair or open surgical repair with suprarenal clamping. Custom made devices (CMD), including fenestrated and branched endovascular aortic repair (F/B-EVAR) or off the shelf (OTS) multibranched devices, are available treatment options. The aim of this study was to determine the additional healthy aortic coverage using an OTS multibranched endograft vs. a CMD for the treatment of p-AAAs.

METHODS

This was a retrospective single centre analysis of prospectively collected data. Consecutive patients with p-AAAs requiring a proximal landing zone above the coeliac artery (CA), planned and treated with CMDs (Zenith Fenestrated) between January 2017 and December 2021 were included in this study. Treatment with supracoeliac coverage using available OTS multibranched devices was simulated using available pre-operative images: T-Branch; E-nside; and TAMBE. Study endpoints included the need for additional proximal aortic coverage, and the number of the segmental arteries additionally covered proximally from the CA for OTS devices compared with CMDs.

RESULTS

Eighty three patients with p-AAAs were treated with CMDs (all FEVAR), including juxtarenal AAAs (n = 46; 56%), suprarenal AAAs (n = 20; 24%), and short neck AAAs (n = 17; 20%). In this study, treatment with 249 (3 × 83) OTS endografts was simulated. When compared with CMDs, OTS devices required a mean of 74 ± 19 mm of additional proximal healthy aortic coverage from the CA (CMD: 33 ± 19 mm vs. OTS: 108 ± 6 mm; p ≤ .001), as well as an average sacrifice of 2.5 additional segmental arteries (CMD: 1.3 ± 0.8 vs. OTS: 3.8 ± 0.9; p ≤ .001). In 94% of patients, at least one of the available multibranched endografts could have been implanted in accordance with instructions for use.

CONCLUSION

Despite not requiring customisation time, OTS endografts for the treatment of p-AAA lead to more extensive healthy aortic coverage, as well as an average sacrifice of 2.5 additional segmental arteries, compared with CMDs. When compared with OTS devices, CMDs appear to limit the extent of unnecessary aortic coverage and the theoretical subsequent risk of spinal cord ischaemia.

Outcomes of Directional Branches of the T-Branch Off-the-Shelf Multi-Branched Stent-Graft

Background: A controversy on bridging covered stent (BCS) choice, between self-expanding (SECS) and balloon-expandable (BECS) stents, still exists in branched endovascular repair. This study aimed to determine the primary target vessel (TV) patency in patients treated with the t-Branch device and identify factors impairing the outcomes. Methods: A retrospective study was undertaken, including patients treated with the t-Branch (Cook Medical, Bloomington, IN, USA) between 2014 and 2019 (early 2014–2016; late 2017–2019). The endpoint was the primary patency (CT: celiac trunk, SMA, superior mesenteric artery, RRA: right renal artery, LRA: left renal artery) during the follow-up. Any branch instability event was assessed. The factors affecting the patency were determined using multivariable regression models and Kaplan–Meier analyses. Results: In total, 2018 TVs were analyzed; 1542 SECSs and 476 BECSs. The CT patency was 99.8% (SE 0.2%) at the 1st month, with no other event. The SMA patency was 97.8% (SE 1) at the 12th month. The RRA patency was 96.7% (SE 2) at the 24th month. The LRA patency was 99% (SE 0.4) at the 6th month. Relining was the only factor independently associated with the SMA patency (OR 8.27; 95% CI 1.4–4.9; p = 0.02). The freedom from instability was 62% (SE 4.3%) and 45% (SE 5.4%) at the 24th month and 36th month. No significant difference was identified between the BECSs and SECSs in the early or late experience. Conclusion: BCS for the t-Branch branches performed with a good primary patency during the short-term follow-up. The type of BCS did not influence the patency. Relining might be protective for SMA patency.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Physician Modified Endografts for Treatment of Thoraco-Abdominal and Complex Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

Perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the outcomes of physician modified endografts (PMEG) for treatment of thoraco-abdominal (TAAA) and complex abdominal aortic aneurysm (C-AAA) repair.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, CENTRAL, Web of Science Core Collection, Scielo and Open Grey databases from inception to July 2021 for studies reporting on outcomes of PMEGs for TAAA or C-AAA repair. A systematic review was conducted (protocol CRD42021267856) and data were pooled using a random-effects model of proportions. The outcomes analyzed were major adverse events at 30-days [30-day mortality, myocardial infarction, respiratory failure requiring prolonged ventilation (>24h or re-intubation), renal failure requiring dialysis, bowel ischemia requiring surgery, major stroke or definitive paraplegia]; technical success; 30-day mortality; ruptures; spinal cord ischemia; endoleaks; re-interventions and target vessel patency.

RESULTS

Twenty studies were included. Overall study quality assessment was found to be low. Overall, 909 PMEGs were reported and analyzed. Regarding aneurysm location (n=867), 222 patients had extent I-III TAAAs and 645 had C-AAA or extent IV TAAA. Regarding presentation, 14 studies reported if the patients were treated in an elective or urgent setting (n=782 patients). Overall, 500 (63.9%) patients were treated in an elective setting and 282(36.1%) in an urgent setting. Major adverse events (at thirty-days) occurred in 15.5% of patients (95%CI:10.8;20.8;I²=63%,135/832cases), being 11.6%(95%CI:8.1;15.7;I²=0%,23/280 cases) for elective patients and 24.6% for urgent (95%CI:14.1;36.6;I²=65%,50/192cases). Overall technical success was 97.2%(95%CI:95.4;98.7;I²=0%,587/611cases), being 98.0%(95%CI:92.1;100;I²=0%,106/113cases) for extent I-III TAAAs and 99.4%(95%CI:97.5;100;I²=0%,317/324cases) for C-AAA and extent IV TAAAs. Regarding technique, technical success was 96.1% for FEVAR (95%CI:93.2;98.4;I²=0%,313/329cases) and 99.8% for F/B-EVAR (95%CI:99.8;100;I²=0%,17/18 cases).

CONCLUSION

Physician modified fenestrated or branched grafts for endovascular aortic repair seems feasible and safe in the short-term follow-up. However, the quality of the available data is low which highlights the need for better and more accurate data regarding this technique.

Midterm Outcomes for Endovascular Repair of Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Objective

To investigate technical and clinical outcomes in patients with thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysms treated with the multibranched off the shelf Zenith t-Branch stent graft or a custom made device (CMD).

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted of patients operated on at a single tertiary vascular centre in Norway. Twenty eight t-Branch and 17 CMD patients were identified. Demographic, aneurysm, and peri-operative data were summarised and compared.

Results

Thirty day mortality was 4% (2/45), with mortality rates of 7% (2/28) and 0 in t-Branch and CMD patients, respectively (p = .52). Technical success was 87% (39/45), with a non-significant difference between t-Branch and CMD procedures of 89% (25/28) and 82% (14/17), respectively (p = .63). Stent graft coverage was significantly longer in t-Branch patients (p = .020). Paraparesis or paraplegia developed in 18% (5/28) of t-Branch patients and 12% (2/17) of CMD patients (p = .69), and spinal cord ischaemia was associated with Crawford type II aneurysms (p = .010) and aortic coverage >400 mm (p = .050). The estimated survival at one and two years for t-Branch patients was 93% and 88%, and 100% and 92% for CMD patients. Freedom from re-intervention was estimated at 70% and 43% at one and two years for t-Branch patients, and 58% and 50% for CMD patients.

Conclusion

The study showed low 30 day mortality rates, acceptable technical success rates, high medium term survival, and no statistically significant differences in clinically relevant outcomes between t-Branch and CMD patients.

•

Clinical outcomes do not vary significantly between t-Branch and CMD patients.

•

30 day mortality was low among both t-Branch and CMD patients.

•

Midterm survival was high in both groups.

Protocol for GUo's renovisceral Artery reconstruction-1: a prospective, multicentre, single-arm clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a multibRANched sTEnt graft systEm for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (GUARANTEE study)

INTRODUCTION

The multibranched off-the-shelf stent graft is a promising treatment option for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA). A commercially available, multibranched, off-the-shelf endograft called the t-Branch stent graft has demonstrated favourable midterm outcomes. Another two investigational off-the-shelf endografts, the GORE EXCLUDER Thoracoabdominal Branch Endoprosthesis and E-nside multibranch stent graft system, are still being developed. However, these three endografts have an unsatisfactory anatomic feasibility rate in patients with TAAA. Based on the concept of Guo's renovisceral artery reconstruction-1, a novel, multibranched, off-the-shelf endograft with different configurations has been developed.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This prospective, multicentre, single-arm, cohort study will enrol 73 patients with TAAA. Preoperative and postoperative clinical data, as well as CT angiography images at each follow-up timepoint, will be analysed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this novel, multibranched, off-the-shelf endograft for the treatment of TAAA. The primary safety end point is the major adverse event rate within 30 days after index endovascular aortic repair, including all-cause death, hepatic failure, bowel necrosis, renal failure, stroke, permanent paraplegia, cardiac infarction and respiratory failure. The primary efficacy end point is the successful treatment rate within 12 months after procedure, which is a composite of immediate technical success and no secondary surgical intervention related to TAAA within 12 months after the procedure.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The protocol has been reviewed and approved by the ethics committee of Chinese PLA General Hospital (reference number: 2021-NO.-007) and each participating hospital. The findings of this study will be disseminated through conference presentations, peer-reviewed journal publications and social media.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05054985.

Endovascular Treatment of Aortic Pathologies in Patients With Marfan Syndrome: Single-Center Experience

OBJECTIVES

To study the outcome of endovascular treatment of aortic pathologies in patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS) at a single institution.

METHODS

Consecutive MFS patients who underwent endovascular repair or hybrid procedures for aortic pathologies from January 2010 to May 2020 were identified. Several endovascular and hybrid strategies have been used. Technical success, short- and mid-term survival, complications, and re-interventions were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

During the study period, 24 patients with MFS (median age, 48 [13-78] years; 58% males) were treated. Indications for intervention were chronic aortic dissection with aneurysm degeneration in 16 patients (67%), acute type B aortic dissection in 4 patients (17%), aortic aneurysm without any dissection in 3 patients (13%), and aortic intramural hematoma in 1 patient (4%). Most patients were asymptomatic (83%), three (13%) were symptomatic and one (4%) had a contained rupture. The median aneurysm diameter was 56 (35-86) mm. Hybrid procedures were performed in 7 (29%) patients. Thoracic endovascular repair was performed in 12 (50%) patients, a fenestrated or branched endovascular aortic repair in 4 (17%) patients, and placement of an iliac artery stent-graft in 1 (4%) patient. Procedures were staged in 12 (50%) patients. Technical success was achieved in all patients. The median intensive care unit stay was 6 (range, 1-30) days, and the median hospital stay was 23 (range, 3-112) days. Early mortality was reported in 1 (4%) patient. Wound infection was seen in 7 (29%) patients and gastrointestinal complications in 3 (13%) patients. The median follow-up was 42 (range, 1-127) months. The cumulative survival rate was 87% at 24 months. The cumulative freedom from re-intervention was 77% at 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular treatment of aortic pathologies in patients with MFS appears feasible with acceptable early and mid-term outcomes in terms of mortality and re-intervention rates. Endovascular therapy plays an increasing role in MFS patients with aortic pathology.

Endovascular Oriented Classification and Treatment of Celiac Trunk Aneurysms: 10 Years Experience

OBJECTIVE

To propose an endovascular-oriented classification of celiac trunk aneurysms (CTa) and discuss single center results of this rare pathology.

METHODS

Data of all patients admitted to our institution for CTa from 2011 to 2021 were prospectively collected. Of them, those who underwent endovascular treatment were retrospectively analyzed. All preoperative CT scans were reviewed and CTa were classified in 4 different configurations based on progressive distal landing zone. We excluded from the classification all cases with median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS), patients with coexistent aortic dilation or no endovascular proximal neck. Preoperative demographics, intraoperative data and post-operative complications were recorded. All-cause late mortality and complications were identified through a review of office charts and telephone assessment.

RESULTS

During the study period 19 patients were referred to our Institution for CTa. Ten patients underwent endovascular treatment (ET). In 6 cases a watchful waiting strategy was adopted, 2 (10.5 %) patients refused ET and one patient without suitable proximal landing zone (< 10 mm) was not proposed to open surgical repair for surgical contraindication but is followed by strict instrumental and clinical evaluation. Six (60%) patients presented type 2 CTa; all of them underwent ET requiring positioning of covered stent-graft and SA embolization. Three (30%) patients presented type 3 CTa; all of them underwent ET with covered stent-graft deployment over the GDA with preliminary embolization. One (10%) patient presented type 4 CTa that was treated by means of covered stent-graft deployment along the right hepatic artery with left hepatic artery embolization. Overall, no major complications and perioperative mortality was observed.

CONCLUSION

Celiac trunk aneurysms are rare, and no classifications have still been presented. Stent-graft exclusion provides excellent short-term outcome with no significant morbidity and mortality rate when technically feasible.

E-nside Off-the-Shelf Inner Branch Stent Graft: Technical Aspects of Planning and Implantation

Purpose

This article aims to present all aspects regarding patient selection, planning, and implantation technique for a new off-the-shelf pre-cannulated multi-inner branch stent graft. The stent graft comes in 4 different versions with proximal diameters of 33 and 38 mm and distal diameters of 26 and 30 mm. The 4 inner branches are located in the middle segment, which has a diameter of 24 mm.

Technique

With inner branch technology, the field of application for the treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAA) has been further extended. In addition to routine use in elective cases the pre-cannulation of the inner branches predisposes especially for emergencies. Pre-cannulation is intended to reduce the time to cannulation and the radiation dose. All steps of planning, stent-graft deployment, and cannulation of the inner branches are described in detail.

Conclusion

The E-nside stent graft represents a promising new endovascular therapy in the treatment of acute and elective TAAA. By using inner branch technology, this endograft combines the advantages of fenestrated and branched stent grafts. Indication, planning, and implantation require experience in branched and fenestrated stent graft technology.

Early outcomes of t-Branch off-the-shelf multibranched stent-graft in urgent and emergent repair of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

We compared the outcomes between elective, urgent, and emergent treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) using the t-Branch off-the-shelf multibranched stent-graft (Cook Medical, Bloomington, Ind).

METHODS

All consecutive patients treated for TAAAs using the t-Branch between September 2012 and June 2019 were included in the present study. The patients were divided into three groups according to the urgency of repair: (1) elective, (2) urgent, and (3) emergent. The periprocedural details and 30-day outcomes were analyzed. Survival and reinterventions were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank tests.

RESULTS

The t-Branch stent-graft was used for 100 patients during the study period. Of the 100 patients, 30 (73% male; mean age, 65 ± 10 years) were treated electively, 49 (54% male; mean age, 72 ± 7 years) urgently, and 21 (81% male; mean age, 75 ± 9 years) emergently. Transfemoral access with a steerable sheath was used more frequently for target vessel catheterization in the elective group (57%) than in the urgent (8%) and emergent (5%) groups (P = .021). The total number of targeted vessels was 111 of 120 (93%) in the elective group vs 185 of 196 (94%) in the urgent group and 82 of 84 (98%) in the emergent group. The corresponding technical success rates were 97% (29 of 30), 98% (48 of 49), and 95% (20 of 21). The median intensive care unit stay was shorter in the elective group (3 days; range, 1-41 days) than in the urgent group (5 days; range, 1-41 days) and emergent group (11 days; range, 3-37 days; P = .004). The 30-day mortality rate was lower in the elective group (2 of 30; 7%) than in the urgent group (8 of 49; 16%) and emergent group (5 of 21; 24%; P = .049). The acute kidney injury rate was lower in the elective group (2 of 30; 7%) than in the urgent group (11 of 49; 22%) and emergent group (8 of 21; 38%; P = .002). The spinal cord ischemia rate was also lower in the elective group (5 of 30; 17%) than in the urgent group (5 of 49; 10%) and emergent group (8 of 21; 38%; P = .051). The median follow-up was 8 months (interquartile range, 3.2-18.5 months). The cumulative survival rate was 95%, 87%, and 87% at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. The cumulative freedom from reintervention during follow-up was 92%, 86%, and 77% at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The technical success of TAAA repair using t-Branch stent-graft was not affected by an urgent or emergent presentation. However, the occurrence of worse periprocedural morbidity and mortality was significantly associated with an urgent or emergent presentation.

Early outcomes of the t-Branch off-the-shelf multi-branched stent graft in 542 patients for elective and urgent aortic pathologies - a retrospective observational study

OBJECTIVE

The t-Branch, a standardized off-the-shelf multi-branched stent graft has been used for the treatment of elective and urgent cases in aortic disease. The aim of this study was to assess the early outcomes in terms of technical success, mortality, and morbidity in >500 patients being treated with the t-Branch device.

METHODS

A two-center retrospective observational study was undertaken including patients treated using the t-Branch (Cook Medical, Bloomington, IN) in elective or urgent settings for complex abdominal aortic aneurysm and thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysm between 2014 and 2019 (early experience 2014-2016; late experience 2017-2019). Primary endpoints were technical success and early (30-day) mortality, and secondary endpoints were early morbidity, endoleak, and target vessel patency rates. Multivariable regression models were used to determine the independent association of risk factors with (1) mortality and (2) spinal cord ischemia.

RESULTS

A total of 542 patients (mean age, 70.5 ± 8.5 years; 388 men [72%]; mean aneurysm diameter, 7.5 ± 2.5 cm) were included (63% elective; 90% thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysm). The technical success rate was 97% (526/542) (elective, 96.7% [328/339] vs urgent, 97.6% [208/213]). The total 30-day mortality rate was 12.3% (8.5% in elective, 15% in symptomatic, and 30% in contained rupture). After multivariate regression analysis, the mortality rate was associated with older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.07; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03-1.11; P < .001) and with lower baseline glomerular filtration rate (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.98-0.99; P < .001). In elective cases, the mortality rate was associated with a history of coronary artery disease (OR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.09-0.73; P < .011) and higher body mass index (OR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.77-0.98; P < .027). In urgent cases, the mortality rate was associated with older age, (OR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.02-1.13; P < .010) and lower baseline glomerular filtration rate (OR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.95-0.99; P < .001). The spinal cord ischemia rate was 10.5% (6.5% temporary, 4% permanent) and was associated with the early study period (OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.03-3.89; P < .038). The renal impairment rate was 13%, the stroke rate was 2.5%, and the myocardial infarction rate was 1.8%, whereas the access complications rate was 7.7%. On early computed tomography angiography, the primary patency rate for the right renal artery was 99.6%, for the left renal artery was 100%, for the superior mesenteric artery was 99.4%, and for the coeliac trunk was 99.8%. The endoleak I and III rates were 2.7% (15/542) and 2.7% (15/542), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Elective and urgent use of the t-Branch multi-branched off-the shelf stent graft showed high technical success and early target vessel patency rates. Early mortality and morbidity rates were acceptable.

Endovascular Repair of Postdissection Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm in Patients With Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

PURPOSE

To report endovascular repair of postdissection thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) in 2 patients with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS).

CASE REPORTS

Case 1. A 56-year-old vEDS male patient with a 50-mm type III TAAA [history of aortic root repair, hemiarch replacement, and thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for acute type A aortic dissection (TAAD) 7 years ago] was treated by a 2-stage procedure; first, cervical debranching of the left subclavian artery and second TEVAR and t-branch. The postoperative course was uneventful. Follow-up computed tomography angiography (CTA) 3.5 years postoperatively demonstrated aortic remodeling with patency of targeted visceral vessels and no endoleak. Case 2. A 47-year-old vEDS male patient presented with a TAAA (diameter of 67 mm). The patient had a history of aortic valve and arch replacement with elephant trunk for acute TAAD, and consequently a TEVAR and candy-plug procedure after a ruptured false lumen (FL) aneurysm of the descending thoracic aorta. He also had a surgical repair by an aorto-bi-iliac graft. Two years later, CTA demonstrated aneurysmal FL dilatation distally to the candy-plug and he was treated with fenestrated EVAR (F-EVAR).

CONCLUSION

Endovascular repair of postdissection TAAA was feasible and safe with good short-term outcome in 2 patients with vEDS.

Fenestrated and Branched Endovascular Aortic Repair of Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm With More Than 4 Target Visceral Vessels due to Renovisceral Arterial Anatomical Variations: Feasibility and Early Results

PURPOSE

This study describes technical success, feasibility, and early results of fenestrated and branched endovascular aortic repair (F/B-EVAR) for treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) or pararenal aneurysms with more than 4 target visceral vessels (TVs) due to renovisceral arterial anatomical variations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with TAAAs or pararenal aortic aneurysms who had more than 4 TVs due to renovisceral arterial anatomical variations of renal, celiac, and/or superior mesenteric arteries and received F/B-EVAR between January 2017 and September 2019 at a single aortic center were included in this study. We analyzed technical success, feasibility, and early outcomes.

RESULTS

Twelve patients (mean age 70±10 years, 9 males) were included. The anatomical variations included 6 right accessory renal arteries, 8 left accessory renal arteries, and 1 celiac artery variant. Stent-grafts were fenestrated, branched or combined in 6, 5, or 1 patients, respectively. The mean operating time was 346±120 minutes, the mean fluoroscopy time was 80±29 minutes, and the mean radiation dose area product was 430±219 Gy·cm². The mean contrast volume was 129±45 mL. The total number of TVs was 64; 5 TVs in 9 patients, 6 in 2 patients, and 7 in 1 patient. Technical success was achieved in all cases. The mean intensive care unit stay was 6±5 days, and the mean total hospital stay was 14±10 days. One patient died early (30-day). Early morbidities included respiratory complication in 1 patient, renal insufficiency in 1 patient, and wound infection in 2 patients. No spinal cord ischemia, stroke, or bowel ischemia occurred. Early computed tomography angiography showed 100% patency of the bridging covered stents and TVs. The mean follow-up was 13±4.3 months. No mortality or adverse major event occurred during the follow-up. Two patients with developed type Ic endoleak related to 1 right renal artery and 1 celiac artery covered stent. Patency of the TVs during follow-up was 100%.

CONCLUSION

The use of F/B-EVAR for the treatment of TAAA with more than 4 TVs due to renovisceral arterial anatomical variations in our own experience is feasible and not related to increased morbidity and mortality.

A Branch-to-Branch Through-and-Through Wire Technique to Redirect a Branch Malposition in Multibranched Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair

OBJECTIVE

To describe a novel technique to redirect a malrotated branch when treating a symptomatic juxtarenal aortic aneurysm using an off-the-shelf multibranched endograft.

TECHNIQUE

A 75-year-old patient was admitted because of a symptomatic juxtarenal aortic aneurysm with a maximum diameter of 9.2 cm. The aneurysm showed no infrarenal neck. Because of his comorbidities, an endovascular repair using off-the-shelf multibranched endograft was considered as urgent procedure. During the deployment, the devise malrotated clockwise. The incorporation of the renal branches was performed successfully; however, the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) branch was malpositioned, so that the SMA could not be cannulated. Both celiac and SMA branches were simultaneously cannulated and snared outside of the endograft redirecting the malrotated SMA branch (a branch-to-branch through-and-through wire technique). Leaving the through-and-through wire in situ, the SMA could be intubated using parallel wire through the SMA branch. The final angiogram showed a good perfusion of the renovisceral vessels. The aneurysm was completely excluded. The patient was discharged into a rehabilitation facility 8 days later without complications. The 12-month follow-up period was uneventful.

CONCLUSION

A branch-to-branch through-and-through wire technique for branch repositioning is feasible and may present a bailout tool.

Single Center Experience with Endovascular Repair of Acute Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysms

PURPOSE

To investigate feasibility and outcomes of endovascular repair for acute thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from a single center were retrospectively analyzed. Patients who underwent endovascular repair for acute TAAA between January 2010 and April 2020 were included. Perioperative and mid-term follow-up outcomes were analyzed. Survival, freedom from reintervention, and target vessel patency were calculated by Kaplan-Meier analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 30 patients (18 men, 67.5 ± 6.9 years) underwent endovascular repair for acute symptomatic (n = 15) or contained ruptured (n = 15) TAAA. An off-the-shelf four-branched stent-graft (T-Branch) was used in 19 (63.3%) patients, a custom-made device (CMD) with expedite order in 5 (16.7%) patients, a CMD with short anticipated delivery time in 3 (10.0%) patients, and a CMD available in the hospital in 3 (10.0%) patients. Technical success was 90.0% (n = 27). Thirty-day mortality was 10% (n = 3). There was no complete persistent paraplegia, but one (3.3%) patient suffered permanent limb weakness. Estimated survival at 1 and 2 years was 86.3% ± 6.4%, and 82.3% ± 7.2%, respectively. Estimated freedom from reintervention at 1 and 2 years was 81.4% ± 7.6% and 73% ± 8.8%. Estimated target vessel patency at 1 and 2 years was 96.6% ± 2% and 92.6% ± 2.9%.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular treatment of acute TAAA in this selected group of patients was associated with low early mortality and excellent mid-term survival. The off-the-shelf stent-graft option (T-Branch) was used in the majority of patients. Endovascular repair should be considered the first option for suitable acute TAAA.

Early and mid-term results from a postmarket observational study of Zenith t-Branch thoracoabdominal endovascular graft

OBJECTIVE

We have reported the short-term outcomes regarding the safety of the off-the-shelf Zenith t-Branch multibranched thoracoabdominal stent-graft (William Cook Europe ApS, Bjaeverskov, Denmark) in a postmarket, multicenter study.

METHODS

Patients who had been treated with the t-Branch device from September 2012 to November 2017 at three European centers were either prospectively or retrospectively enrolled in the present study. Device implantation and postprocedural follow-up were performed according to the standard of care at each center. The primary objectives of the present study were to assess the procedure-related mortality and morbidity at 30 days and 1 year and to assess the presence of endoleaks, device integrity, and stent-graft and branch vessel patency.

RESULTS

A total of 80 patients were included in the present study (mean age, 71.0 ± 7.4 years; 70.0% male). Most (n = 77) had been treated for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) and the rest for dissection (n = 3). Most TAAAs were stable (72.7%; 56 of 77). The remaining TAAAs were symptomatic (7.8%; 6 of 77) or had a contained rupture (19.5%; 15 of 77). The t-Branch device was successfully deployed in 79 patients. In one patient, the delivery system of the device could not be advanced through the iliac artery. Within 30 days, one patient had died (1.3%). At 1 year, seven patients had died (8.8%), and no aortic rupture or conversion to open surgery had been reported. The 30-day neurologic events included stroke in three patients (3.8%), paraplegia in one (1.3%), and paraparesis in six patients (7.5%). Secondary interventions were required in nine patients (11.3%) during follow-up. Postoperative endoleaks were observed in 37 of 72 patients (51.4%), including type II endoleak in 30, type Ia in 4, and type III endoleak in 6 patients. At 1 year, endoleaks had been reported in 20 patients (16 with type II and 4 with type III). The t-Branch main body graft patency was 100% throughout the 1-year follow-up period. At 30 days after the procedure, all celiac and superior mesenteric artery branches were patent and one left renal and one right renal branch were occluded. At 1 year, occlusion had developed in three bridging stent-grafts for the celiac artery, one for the left renal artery, and two for the right renal artery.

CONCLUSION

The t-Branch device appears safe, with good 30-day and 1-year mortality and morbidity in the present study, including both stable and symptomatic cases.

Five Year Results of Off the Shelf Fenestrated Endografts for Elective and Emergency Repair of Juxtarenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

OBJECTIVE

Fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR) is a well established treatment for complex abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). FEVAR with custom made devices (CMDs) has limitations in both the emergency and elective settings due to time consuming manufacture. "Off the shelf" (OTS) fenestrated stent grafts are a potential solution. The primary goal was to evaluate the five year outcome of the COOK Zenith p-Branch OTS device at a single centre.

METHODS

Patients with juxtarenal AAA meeting the inclusion criteria for the COOK Zenith p-Branch device were enrolled in a prospective, non-randomised, non-comparative trial from July 2012 to September 2015. Demographic, anatomical, procedure related, and five year follow up data were collected, analysed, and adjudicated by a core laboratory. The primary aims were to assess intervention free survival and overall survival at five years.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients were treated and 21 completed follow up. Mean time to p-Branch implantation after patient presentation was 28 hours (range 0-122 hours) in emergency cases and 67 days (range 20-112 days) in elective cases. Median procedure time was 283 minutes (range 161-475 minutes) and technical success was 91%. Mean follow up was 45 months (standard deviation ± 24.4 months). The most common adverse events were renal injuries. Primary target vessel patency was 96.4% and 94.0% after one and five years respectively. Mean time to first re-intervention was 469 days (range 0-1 567 days). Survival during the follow up period was 76%, with no aneurysm related deaths.

CONCLUSION

FEVAR with the COOK Zenith p-Branch device is safe and effective for juxtarenal AAA in a selected patient population, in both elective and emergency settings. Long term outcomes are acceptable although inferior to CMDs. Mid and long term outcomes emphasise the p-Branch as a possible endovascular treatment for juxtarenal aortic pathology where CMD is not an option. Further innovation to address target vessel complications is needed, as these seem more prevalent than after repair with CMDs.

Effect of branch length and tortuosity on the outcomes of branched endovascular repair of thoracoabdominal aneurysms using self-expandable bridging stent graft

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the effect of the length and tortuosity of directional branches on the mid-term outcomes of branched endovascular aneurysm repair (BEVAR) for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAA).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed single-center data of consecutive patients who had undergone BEVAR for TAAA from 2015 to 2019. Three-dimensional computed tomography angiogram reconstructions (Aquarius iNtuition software; TeraRecon, Durham, NC) of the first postoperative imaging studies were used to measure the branch total length (TL), branch vertical length (VL), and branch tortuosity index (TI). The branch TL was measured as the centerline distance between the branch proximal radiopaque marker and the distal edge of the bridging stent. The VL was measured as the centerline distance between the branch distal radiopaque marker and the origin of the target artery. The TI was measured in accordance with the Society for Vascular Surgery reporting standard. The primary end point was freedom from branch instability, defined as any branch-related death, occlusion, or rupture and any reintervention for stenosis, endoleak, or disconnection. Cox proportional hazards were used to identify predictors of branch instability. A penalized spline function was used to identify the relationship between branch instability and the branch TL and VL.

RESULTS

Postimplantation analysis was conducted on 32 TAAAs (extent I-III, n = 18 [56%]; extent IV, n = 14 [44%]), with 123 arteries included through a directional branch. A covered self-expanding bridging stent was used in all cases. Intraoperative reinforcement with an additional bare metal stent was performed in 85 cases (69%). The overall freedom from branch instability at 3 years was 88% (95% confidence interval [CI], 81%-94%). Five cases of occlusion and eight cases of branch-related endoleak occurred. A concomitant endoleak and severe stenosis requiring intervention developed in three cases. The Cox model with splines showed that the minimal risk of branch instability was achieved with a branch TL of 60 to 100 mm (P = .002) and a branch VL of 25 to 50 mm (P = .038). A TI of >1.15 was a predictor of branch complications (hazard ratio [HR], 8.6; 95% CI, 2.4-31.4; P < .001). After multivariate analysis, aneurysm diameter (HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.03-1.15; P = .003), TI >1.15 (HR, 6.81; 95% CI, 2.17-27.33; P < .001), and TL <60 or >100 mm (P = .002) were significantly associated with branch instability.

CONCLUSIONS

The branch length and TI seemed to play an important role in BEVAR outcomes. The lowest branch instability rates were obtained with a branch TL of 60 to 100 mm, and this should be considered during planning and implantation. A branch TI >1.15 might require a more strict monitoring to prevent mid- and long-term complications.

Comparison of transfemoral versus upper extremity access to antegrade branches in branched endovascular aortic repair

OBJECTIVE

We studied the outcomes of transfemoral access (TFA) vs upper extremity access (UEA) for branched endovascular aortic repair (BEVAR).

METHODS

From January 2016 to October 2019, 152 consecutive patients underwent BEVAR under general anesthesia at a single institution. In 2018, an alternative approach to the antegrade branches using TFA compared with conventional UEA was introduced. The cohort was divided into TFA and UEA groups according to the access approach. The end points were technical success, adverse events (including perioperative stroke/transient ischemic attack), access complications, operation time, and radiation exposure.

RESULTS

The TFA group included 60 patients (63% male; median age, 71 years; interquartile range [IQR], 65-76 years). The UEA group included 92 patients (67% male; median age, 73 years; IQR, 66-78 years). The number of target vessels (TVs) was similar in both groups (median, 4.0 TVs per procedure; range, 1-7 TVs for both). Technical success was greater in the TFA group (60 of 60 patients; 209 of 209 TVs) than in the UEA group (87 of 92 patients; 334 of 346 TVs; P < .01). The fluoroscopy time (median, 69 minutes; IQR, 48-87 minutes; vs 88 minutes; IQR, 65-104 minutes; P = .39) and contrast agent volume (median, 141 mL; IQR, 123-165 mL; vs median, 130 mL; IQR, 101-157 mL; P = .34) were similar in both groups. The radiation exposure (221 Gy × cm²; IQR, 138-406 Gy × cm²; vs median, 255 Gy × cm²; IQR, 148-425 Gy × cm²; P = .05) was lower and the operation time (median, 300 minutes; IQR, 240-356 minutes; vs median, 364 minutes; IQR, 290-475 minutes; P = .01) was shorter in the TFA group. Brachial access complications (0 of 60 vs 3 of 92 patients) and perioperative strokes/transient ischemic attacks (0 of 60 vs 8 of 92 patients) only occurred in the UEA group (P = .018).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of TFA to catheterize antegrade branches was associated with a lower rate of complications in the present study and has become our preferred approach for BEVAR.

Use of a Steerable Sheath for Antegrade Catheterization of a Supra-aortic Branch of an Inner-Branched Arch Endograft via a Percutaneous Femoral Access

Purpose: To describe the use of a steerable sheath from a femoral access for antegrade catheterization of the left common carotid artery (LCCA) in an inner-branched arch endograft. Technique: This technique is demonstrated in a patient with residual aortic dissection after replacement of the ascending aorta for acute type A aortic dissection. He presented 4 years later with aneurysmal degeneration of the thoracoabdominal aorta and a proximal tear located in the aortic arch. A 2-stage hybrid approach was devised to treat the patient. An axilloaxillary crossover graft (left to right) with plug occlusion of the innominate artery was performed initially. Later, a dual-branched custom-made device was implanted. To avoid an additional LCCA cutdown for retrograde branch access, an 18-F steerable sheath was used through a percutaneous femoral access. Two wires were delivered within the steerable sheath: the first one was directed into the left subclavian artery to stabilize the sheath position in the ascending aorta; the second wire was used to catheterize the first inner branch and the LCCA to deploy the covered bridging stent. Conclusion: Transfemoral access to catheterize antegrade branches for supra-aortic vessels is feasible using a large steerable sheath in branched endovascular arch repair.

Short-term outcomes of the t-Branch off-the-shelf multibranched stent graft for reintervention after previous infrarenal aortic repair

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of t-Branch (Cook Medical, Bloomington, Ind) stent graft for the treatment of thoracoabdominal and pararenal aortic aneurysms in patients who had previous infrarenal aortic repair.

METHODS

A retrospective two-center study was undertaken. All consecutive patients who underwent endovascular repair using t-Branch stent graft after previous infrarenal aortic repair between January 2010 and August 2018 were included. Demographics, past medical history, cardiovascular risk factors, and intraoperative and perioperative details were recorded. Technical success and early (30-day) mortality, morbidity, target vessel patency, and presence of endoleak were analyzed. During the first year of follow-up, survival, freedom from reintervention, and patency rates were recorded.

RESULTS

There were 32 patients (mean age, 74 ± 7 years; 81% male) included in the study; 24 (75%) patients had prior open surgical repair, and 8 (25%) patients had undergone standard endovascular aneurysm repair. The index operation was performed 9 ± 5 years earlier, including 10 ± 5 years for open surgical repair and 8 ± 6 years for endovascular aortic repair. The indication was progression of the disease in 26 patients (81%) and type IA endoleak in 6 patients (19%). The total number of target vessels incorporated was 117 arteries (3.8 ± 0.6 target vessels per patient). Eleven patients had only three vessels incorporated; celiac trunk was occluded in three patients, and eight patients had one functioning kidney. Technical success rate was 97% (31/32). There was a single technical failure in one patient who had a type IA endoleak after endovascular repair with suprarenal fixation. The stenotic right renal artery was not catheterized at the initial procedure, and retrograde access was achieved through a right subcostal incision 3 days later with successful completion of the repair. Early mortality rate was 13%, and spinal cord ischemia rate was 22% (7/32); four patients had permanent and three had transient neurologic deficits. Early target vessel patency was 100%, and the rate of any endoleak was 9% (3/32); two patients had type II endoleaks and one patient had type III endoleak. The mean follow-up was 5.4 ± 5.9 months. The cumulative survival rate was 82% and 73% at 6 and 12 months, respectively. The freedom from aorta-related mortality was 92% at 6 and 12 months. The cumulative freedom from reintervention during follow-up was 90% at 6 and 12 months. The overall target vessel patency rate was 100% and 97.5% at 6 and 12 months, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of t-Branch off-the-shelf stent graft for the treatment of aortic disease in patients who had previous infrarenal aortic repair appears to be feasible, with acceptable early outcomes in terms of morbidity and mortality.

Balloon-Anchoring Technique to Stabilize Target Vessel Catheterization in Complex Endovascular Aortic Repair

Purpose: To describe a bailout technique to stabilize target vessel catheterization in branched endovascular aortic repair. Technique: The technique is demonstrated in a 75-year-old patient with a 75-mm symptomatic type III thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm that was treated with a t-Branch endograft. If a catheter cannot be advanced for exchange to a more stable guidewire after target vessel catheterization, the balloon-anchoring technique can be applied to stabilize the through-the-branch hydrophilic guidewire. Through a femoral access a catheter and hydrophilic wire are passed outside the device into the target vessel and exchanged with a stiff wire; a semicompliant balloon is advanced over the Rosen wire and inflated in the target vessel, stabilizing the through-the-branch hydrophilic wire and facilitating its exchange with a stiff wire over a catheter or advancement of the bridging covered stent directly. Conclusion: The balloon-anchoring technique adds to the spectrum of bailout techniques that can be applied in cases of challenging target vessel access.

Endovascular Repair Using a 7-Branch Stent-Graft for a Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm With Variant Renovisceral Artery Anatomy

Purpose: To present a case of endovascular repair using a custom-made 7-branch stent-graft for a thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) in a patient with variations in the renovisceral artery anatomy. Case Report: A 70-year-old asymptomatic man presented with a 60-mm-diameter type IV TAAA. Due to severe coronary artery disease, an endovascular approach was elected. In the preoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) scans, variations in the renovisceral artery anatomy included the common hepatic and splenic arteries deriving separately from the aorta and bilateral double renal arteries (RAs). A custom-made 7-branch stent-graft was manufactured to preserve all renovisceral arteries. The 7 branches were catheterized and connected with a steerable sheath from a femoral access. All branches were bridged to the target vessel (TV) with a self-expanding covered stent; 4 TVs also had balloon-expandable covered stents implanted. Final angiography and predischarge CTA showed patency of all 7 target vessels and corresponding visceral organs, with no endoleak. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 8 without complications. Six-month follow-up CTA demonstrated exclusion of the TAAA and patency of all 7 target vessels. Conclusion: Successful treatment of a TAAA in a patient with multiple variant renovisceral arteries was feasible with a custom-made 7-branch stent-graft, achieving a good early outcome.

Current status of endovascular treatment for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms

Open surgical repair (OSR) for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) is maximally invasive and associated with high rates of operative mortality and perioperative complications including spinal cord ischemia (SCI), despite improvements in surgical techniques and perioperative care. Elderly patients, patients with a history of aortic surgery, and patients with severe comorbidities are often considered ineligible for this surgery and endovascular treatment may be their only treatment option. Total endovascular aneurysm repair (t-EVAR) without debranching surgery does not require thoracotomy and laparotomy and could improve the outcomes of these patients. t-EVAR includes fenestrated EVAR (f-EVAR), multi-branched EVAR (b-EVAR), and physician-modified fenestration endograft (PMFG). Although these techniques have achieved lower mortality rates than OSR, there are concerns about perioperative complications including limb ischemia, SCI, and long-term outcomes such as endograft migration and endoleaks (ELs). This article provides an overview of available endovascular devices for TAAAs and reviews the short and mid-term results of t-EVAR, as well as alternative options.

Complex Endovascular Aortic Repair With a Branched Endograft to Revascularize 5 Renovisceral Vessels and an Intercostal Artery in a Marfan Patient

Purpose: To report a case of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair treated with a multibranched stent-graft including a prophylactic branch for a large intercostal artery in a Marfan patient at risk for spinal cord ischemia (SCI). Case Report: A 43-year-old man with Marfan syndrome presented with a type IV thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) and history of multiple previous cardiac and aortic operations over the past 28 years. The maximum diameter of the aneurysm was 60 mm. The patient had 2 right renal arteries and 2 reimplanted segmental arteries (1 occluded). With the goal of preserving both right renal arteries and the large intercostal artery, a 6-branch, custom-made stent-graft was planned and manufactured. Bilateral femoral and right brachial artery access was used. The intercostal artery was catheterized and connected to the retrograde branch from a femoral access. Final angiography and predischarge computed tomography angiography (CTA) showed unimpeded flow to all 6 target vessels. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 10 without clinical signs of SCI. Six-month follow-up CTA demonstrated exclusion of the TAAA and patency of all 6 branches. Conclusion: Multibranched endovascular aortic repair with a branch to a large intercostal artery was technically feasible and clinically successful.

A novel all-retrograde approach for t-Branch implantation in ruptured thoracoabdominal aneurysm

The off-the-shelf t-Branch device (Cook Medical, Bloomington, Ind) significantly advanced the endovascular treatment of ruptured thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. Improved techniques for expeditious implantation of the t-Branch may improve clinical outcomes for this emergent procedure. Currently, implantation is described using axillary and femoral access. We describe the repair of a ruptured thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm exclusively through femoral access aided by a steerable sheath and newer generation, low-profile bridging stents.

Use of a Steerable Sheath for Retrograde Access to Antegrade Branches in Branched Stent-Graft Repair of Complex Aortic Aneurysms

Purpose: To describe how to use a steerable sheath from a femoral access to catheterize antegrade branches in a branched aortic stent-graft. Technique: Following femoral cutdown, a stent-graft with antegrade branches destined for renovisceral target vessels was deployed in the desired position. A steerable sheath with a tip that rotates up to 180° was introduced from the common femoral artery and navigated to the antegrade branches for consecutive catheterization of the target vessels and deployment of one or more bridging stents per branch. The technique is demonstrated in 4 patients who underwent successful complex abdominal and thoracoabdominal branched endovascular repairs with 1, 2, and 4 antegrade branches. Conclusion: Retrograde access for complex aortic endografts with antegrade branches using a steerable sheath appears feasible and effective and may serve as an alternative to upper extremity access.

Accurate Orientation of the t-Branch Off-the-Shelf Multibranched Endograft After Deployment in Urgent Cases

Purpose: To evaluate the orientation of the standardized off-the-shelf multibranched t-Branch after implantation in urgent thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repairs, to characterize the impact of branch malorientation on procedural success, and to identify any predictive factors associated with malorientation. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of 42 consecutive patients (mean age 73.3±7 years; 25 men) with urgent TAAA presentation treated with the t-Branch from January 2014 to June 2017. The primary objective was to quantify the preoperative clock position of the target vessels and determine any rotational deviation between the pre- and postoperative measurements and between the postoperative measurements and the standard branch configuration. Secondary outcomes were to identify factors influencing malorientation (>2 clock face hours) that could affect outcome. Results were compared for early (learning curve; n=18) vs late (n=24) experience and for adherence to (n=23) vs nonobservance of (n=19) the instructions for use (IFU). Results: Technical success was 93% (39/42). No significant difference in rotational deviation was identified between patients treated within the IFU vs outside the IFU. Seven (17%) patients had at least one target vessel maloriented after the procedure, which was not associated with total procedure time, fluoroscopy time, contrast volume, radiation dose, or adherence to the IFU. Female gender was associated with increased rotational deviation in postprocedure measurement for the celiac trunk (p=0.044) and superior mesenteric artery (SMA; p=0.006). Female gender was also associated with increased rotational deviation between the branch origin after deployment and the standard configuration of the t-Branch for every target vessel [celiac trunk (p=0.005), SMA (p=0.001), right renal artery (p=0.037), and left renal artery (p=0.003)]. Conclusion: The implantation of the t-Branch device in urgent cases achieved accurate apposition without rotational deviation between the target vessels and the position of the endograft branches. Gender may have an impact on orientation of the device. The t-Branch appears to have a “forgiving” nature for higher malorientation with no effect on procedure time, target vessel revascularization, or early branch patency.

Advanced Technical Considerations for Implanting the t-Branch Off-the-Shelf Multibranched Stent-Graft to Treat Thoracoabdominal Aneurysms

Purpose: To demonstrate different techniques and device modifications that can expand the anatomic suitability of the off-the-shelf multibranched t-Branch for treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm. Technique: The t-Branch device is not customized for specific patient anatomy, and the most frequent limitations to its use are an inadequate sealing zone and renal artery anatomy. Experience with this device has prompted the development of several techniques that can be employed to maximize the suitability of this stent-graft. Advice is offered on modification of the device to minimize the risk of paraplegia or better match patient anatomy. Maneuvers are explained to ease delivery through tortuous anatomy or existing stent-grafts, catheterize visceral target vessels, select a bridging stent, reduce ischemia time in the limbs, and alter the configuration of the branches. Conclusion: Employing adjunctive maneuvers can increase the anatomic suitability of the t-Branch; in our experience, these techniques have increased the applicability to more than 80% of all elective and urgent thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm cases.

Early Outcomes of the t-Branch Off-the-Shelf Multibranched Stent-Graft in Urgent Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

Purpose: To assess the short-term outcomes of the multibranched off-the-shelf t-Branch stent-graft for urgent thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair and to evaluate the impact on outcomes of the learning curve and adherence to the instruction for use (IFU). Methods: Between 2014 and 2017, 42 patients (mean age 73.3±7 years; 26 men) underwent urgent TAAA treatment using the t-Branch stent-graft [18 in the early (2014–2015) period and 24 in the late (2016–2017) period]. Nearly half the patients were symptomatic (n=18) and 12 had contained rupture. Aneurysm diameter >80 mm was present in 12 (mean diameter 77.7±13.2 mm). Nineteen patients did not meet the IFU for the t-Branch due to target vessel anatomy. The primary endpoints were spinal cord ischemia (SCI), renal function impairment, and 30-day mortality. Target vessel patency and endoleak incidence were assessed at 30 days. Multivariate analyses examined associations between perioperative variables and outcomes; the results are presented as the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: The technical success rate was 93% (39/42). Successful catheterization was achieved in 150/155 target vessels (97%). The postoperative SCI rate was 21% (5 paraplegia/4 transient paraparesis) and was correlated with age (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.56, p=0.04). The renal function impairment rate was 23% (10/42; 2 temporary, 2 permanent dialysis) and was correlated with early experience (OR 7.74, 95% CI 1.3 to 43.9, p=0.019). The 30-day mortality was 14% (no intraoperative deaths); no factor was associated with mortality. During the first month, the incidences of type I, II, and III endoleaks were 0%, 43%, and 0%, respectively; branch patency was 99% (150/151). Procedure time decreased in the later experience (479±333 vs 407±25 minutes, p=0.09), though it was increased in cases outside the IFU (497±135 vs 389±118 minutes, p=0.009), along with fluoroscopy time (121±48 vs 92±33 minutes, p=0.036). Conclusion: Endovascular repair of urgent TAAA using the t-Branch is a feasible treatment option with acceptable 30-day mortality and morbidity in terms of SCI and renal function impairment. Adherence to the IFU prolonged procedure time but had no effect on outcomes. Increased experience of such cases over time may improve outcomes.

Endovascular Repair of a Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm With a Patient-Specific Fenestrated-Branched Stent-Graft

PURPOSE

To describe the technical aspects of a thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair using a patient-specific fenestrated-branched stent-graft.

TECHNIQUE

The technique is demonstrated in a 69-year-old man with a 6.2-cm asymptomatic type III TAAA. A patient-specific fenestrated-branched stent-graft was designed with 2 down-going directional branches for the celiac and superior mesenteric arteries and 2 reinforced fenestrations for the renal arteries. The procedure was performed under general anesthesia and included sequential stenting of the celiac, superior mesenteric, and bilateral renal arteries. The patient was discharged from the hospital on postoperative day 5 with no complications. Follow-up computed tomography angiography demonstrated exclusion of the aneurysm and patent target vessels at 12-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This article and illustrated video highlight the steps for procedure planning and implantation of fenestrated and branched endografts. As these techniques continue to evolve, outcomes are expected to be equivalent or improved as compared to those of long-established open repair.