"Loss of landing zone"-Stabilizing endovascular treatment solutions in the aortic arch after thoracic endovascular aortic repair

Addressing proximal complications that arise after endovascular aortic repair for type B aortic dissection, such as type Ia endoleaks, "bird-beaking" of the thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) stent, retrograde type A dissection, and postdissection aneurysms, bears considerable complexities. We present a novel and safe method for open arch repair that can ensure a secure and efficient approach for TEVAR complications. The key element of the operative technique is approximating the grafted stent portion to the aortic wall and the arch prosthesis. The technique has successfully been implemented in 11 patients, who received secondary open arch repair from 2019 to 2022 after TEVAR for type B dissection. Our objective is not only to introduce this reliable concept but also to provide a comprehensive demonstration of its advantages and disadvantages compared with currently used open treatment methods and discuss patient outcomes after secondary open arch repair.

Use of Shockwave Intravascular Lithotripsy in Recanalization of Calcified Visceral and Renal Arteries: A Case Report and Update of the Literature

PURPOSE

Calcifications of the visceral and renal arteries lead to chronic mesenteric ischemia and renal artery stenosis, and both open and endovascular treatments can be proposed. Intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) has emerged as a novel technique used in peripheral and coronary interventions.

CASE REPORT

A 73-year-old man presented with chronic postprandial abdominal pain and weight loss. Computed-tomography-angiography (CTA) showed 93% calcified stenosis of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA). The plain old balloon angioplasty (POBA) was affected by immediate recoiling. The patient underwent ShockwaveTM IVL of the SMA via brachial access and stent-graft implantation. At 3-months follow-up, the patient showed symptoms resolution.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of Shockwave IVL can be an effective treatment for severely calcified SMA stenosis. A similar approach can be employed in both celiac and renal arteries as reported in 11 cases in literature and herein summarized. Intravascular lithotripsy resulted in high technical success and uneventful follow-up. However, given the small number of patients reported, larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.

CLINICAL IMPACT

This article reports a case of recanalization of superior mesenteric artery with heavily calcified lesion treated with intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) with Shockwave™ Intravascular Lithotripsy Balloon (Shockwave Medical Inc., Santa Clara, CA, USA). Beside, for the first time, we summarize the Literature on the use of IVL in the renal and visceral arteries district, providing indications, applications and useful hints for the endovascular treatment of chronic mesenteric ischemia and renal artery stenosis. This preliminary data show straightforward applicability, high technical success, and uneventful follow-up and IVL can be proposed as an useful tool for challenging revascularization of heavily calcified reno-visceral arteries.

Early and Mid-Term Outcomes of the Inverted Limb Configuration Below Fenestrated and Branched Endografts: Experience from Two European Centers

PURPOSE

To report a European experience on the use of the Inverted Limb (IL) below fenestrated and branched endografts (FB-EVAR) for the treatment of juxta/pararenal (JP-AAAs), thoracoabdominal (TAAAs), and para-anastomotic aortic aneurysms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 2016 and 2020, all FB-EVAR with distal IL due to previous open (OSR) or endovascular repair (EVAR) or infrarenal aortic length <76 mm at two European university centers were retrospectively analyzed. Technical success, early and mid-term iliac complications (occlusion; type Ib endoleak [EL]), IL-related complications (type III EL), and reinterventions were assessed as primary endpoints; 30-day mortality, survival and freedom from (FF) overall complications/reinterventions were assessed as secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Forty-one high-risk patients (male 30%-73%; mean age 71±10 years; ASA 3-4, 41%-100%) underwent FB-EVAR with distal IL for 8 (19.5%) J/P-AAAs and 33 (80.5%) TAAAs. Sixteen (39%) patients with previous aortic treatment (8 OR, 8 EVAR) were included. Preoperative computed tomographic angiography showed infrarenal aortic length <76 mm in all cases. Custom-made endografts were configured as 31 (75.6%) fenestrated-only, 6 (14.6%) branched-only, and 4 (9.8%) fenestrated+branched for an overall of 158 target visceral vessels (TVVs; 3.8±0.7 TVVs/case). The IL main body was planned with 1-stent, 2-stents, and 3-stents in 6 (14.6%), 23 (56.1%), and 12 (29.3%) cases, respectively. Technical success and 30-day mortality were 97.6% (40/41) and 0%. Thirty-day complications occurred in 2 (4.9%) patients: 1 limb occlusion, requiring reintervention, 1 type III EL, spontaneously resolved. Mean follow-up was 21±16 months. Three After 30-day, 3 (7.3%) iliac complications (2 occlusions; 1 type Ib EL) were successfully managed by endovascular reinterventions; no IL-related complications were observed. The patency of TVVs was 96.8%. No correlation between anatomical characteristics, endograft configuration, and primary outcomes was observed, except for 1-stent IL and type III EL (log rank p=0.01). At 1- and 2-year follow-up survival, FF overall iliac/IL-related complications and FF reinterventions were 90% and 80%, 90% and 84%, and 92% and 87%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The IL configuration allows a safe endovascular treatment of challenging aortic lesions in high-risk patients although needing a number of adjunctive procedures. A short main body of IL could be associated with intraoperative and perioperative type III EL.

CLINICAL IMPACT

Bifurcated endograft with inverted limb configuration increases the feasibility of a total endovascular approach in patients with challenging anatomy. The use of inverted limb overcomes the anatomical limitations of short-body initial grafts and short distance between lowest target artery and the aortic bifurcation, leading the fixation inside the endograft. Although technically demanding, this advanced technology could avoid surgical reinterventions in previous open or endovascular repair that are burdened with higher rates of morbidities and complications.

Multicentre Experience with Novel Bidirectional Double Cuffed Inner Branches for Complex Endovascular Aortic Repair

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to report the initial experience with a novel bidirectional double cuff inner branch design for incorporation of renal and mesenteric arteries in patients undergoing fenestrated and branched endovascular aortic repair (F/BEVAR).

METHODS

A retrospective review was undertaken of the experience of F/BEVAR with grafts integrating at least one bidirectional double cuffed inner branch implanted at three tertiary aortic centres between March 2022 and June 2023. All consecutive patients were included. Baseline characteristics, operative data, and follow up data were collected. Results were presented as number or median (interquartile range) unless otherwise stated.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients (10 male; median age 72 [68, 77] years) had F/BEVAR using a total of 15 bidirectional double cuffed inner branches (30 cuffs). Indications for bidirectional doubled cuffed inner branches included cranial vessel orientation or double renal arteries in four patients each, common coeliomesenteric trunk in three patients, and early renal artery bifurcation, renal artery origin from a false lumen requiring a flexible route for catheterisation, and surplus configuration in one patient each. Twenty three of the 30 cuffs were used, whereas the remaining seven cuffs were intentionally occluded with vascular plugs. Target vessel incorporation was successful in all bidirectional branches. There was one technical failure related to unsuccessful catheterisation of a left renal artery targeted through a unidirectional caudal inner branch. During a median follow up of seven months there were no instances of target vessel instability or re-interventions and two patients died of causes unrelated to the bidirectional branches.

CONCLUSION

The results of the use of bidirectional double cuff inner branches are promising, with high technical success and no short term branch related complications in this preliminary experience. This could potentially expand the applicability of branch endografting of complex endovascular aortic repairs, but long term results are still missing.

Impact of Calcification on the Outcomes of Femoropopliteal Artery Endovascular Treatment Using a Polymer Coated Drug-Eluting Stent

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of calcification on the 12 and 24 months outcomes of the Eluvia™ (Boston Scientific®) drug-eluting stent (DES) for femoropopliteal occlusive disease using three different calcium scoring systems.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A single-center, retrospective cohort-study (March-2016 to December-2018) of patients treated with the Eluvia™ DES for femoropopliteal atherosclerosis was performed. Outcomes included primary and secondary patency rates and freedom from target lesion revascularization (FTLR) and were analyzed by comparing the impact of calcium burden according to the following calcium scores: Peripheral Arterial Calcium Scoring System (PACSS) score, number of vessel quadrants affected (0-4) and calcification score per Peripheral Academic Research Consortium (PARC) definitions.

RESULTS

In total, 111 Patients were included (mean age: 71.2 ± 7.9; 64% male). Most patients presented with Rutherford class 3 (79.9%), followed by class 5 (12.7%), class 4 (10%) and class 6 (6.4%). The mean lesion length was 197.6 ± 108.5 mm and 74.3% of patients had chronic total occlusions. There were no differences in primary patency between the calcification scores at 12 months (PACSS, LogRank = 0.28; quadrants, LogRank = 0.29; PARC, LogRank = 0.42) and 24 months (PACSS, LogRank = 0.13; quadrants, LogRank = 0.42; PARC, LogRank = 0.13). FTLR was significantly lower at 12 months in patients with calcification affecting 3 or 4 quadrants (LogRank = 0.022) but not at 24 months (LogRank = 0.36).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, the Eluvia™ DES showed promising performance in calcified disease and the analysis according to the quadrant model predicted an increased risk for TLR at 12 months.

The Impact of Target Vessel Anatomy and Bridging Stent Geometry on Branched Endovascular Aortic Repair Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of target vessel anatomy and bridging stent geometry on target vessel instability in branched endovascular aortic repair (b-EVAR).

METHODS

This retrospective, single centre cohort study included all consecutive b-EVARs performed between September 2018 and December 2022 for thoracoabdominal (TAAA) or complex abdominal aortic aneurysms (CAAA). The primary endpoints were target vessel instability and related re-interventions at 12 months. Secondary endpoints were 30 day results, including target vessel instability and re-interventions. Target vessel instability analysis consisted of assessment of target vessel anatomy, including diameter, aortic trunk to branch angle, and tortuosity. Post-operative parameters included change of clock position/horizontal misalignment, bridging length (gap), sealing length, tortuosity, post-stenting angle, and oversizing ratio.

RESULTS

A total of 69 patients (TAAA: n = 56, 81%; CAAA: n = 13, 19%) and 271 (133 visceral and 138 renal) target vessels were included. Cumulative incidence of target vessel instability was 4.8%, 6.4%, and 7.9% at one year, two years, and three years, respectively. In the renal target vessel group, vessel diameter ≤ 4 mm (hazard ratio [HR] 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.116 - 2.54; p = .022) and a bridging length ≥ 25 mm (HR 1.320, 95% CI 1.066 - 1.636; p = .011) were associated to increased target vessel instability. In visceral vessels, a change in clock position/horizontal misalignment ≥ 70 minutes (HR 1.072, 95% CI 1.026 - 1.121; p = .002) showed a significant association with target vessel instability.

CONCLUSION

Target vessel diameter, bridging length (gap), and horizontal misalignment seemed to be associated with adverse target vessel outcomes. This may be solved with more customised endograft solutions to reduce the negative impact of the latter parameter.

Identification of microRNA biomarkers simultaneously expressed in circulating extracellular vesicles and atherosclerotic plaques

Background

Atherosclerosis is a widespread disorder of the cardiovascular system. The early detection of plaques by circulating biomarkers is highly clinically relevant to prevent the occurrence of major complications such as stroke or heart attacks. It is known that extracellular vesicles (EVs) are important in intercellular communication in atherosclerotic disorders and carry many components of their cells of origin, including microRNAs (miRNAs). In this study, we test the assumption that miRNAs present in material acquired from plaques in patients undergoing surgery for atherosclerotic carotid artery stenosis are also expressed in circulating EVs obtained from the identical patients. This would allow the adoption of a liquid biopsy approach for the detection of plaques.

Methods

We studied 22 surgical patients with atherosclerotic carotid arterial stenosis and 28 healthy controls. EVs were isolated from serum by precipitation. miRNA expression profiles of serum-derived EVs were obtained by small RNA sequencing and in plaque material simultaneously acquired from patients. A comparative analysis was performed to identify circulating atherosclerosis-associated miRNAs that are also detectable in plaques.

Results

Seven miRNAs were found to be differentially regulated in patient serum compared with the serum of healthy controls. Of these, miR-193b-5p, miR-193a-5p, and miR-125a-3p were significantly upregulated in patients compared with that in healthy controls and present in both, circulating EVs and plaque material. An overrepresentation analysis of experimentally validated mRNA targets revealed an increased regulation of inflammation and vascular growth factors, key players in atherosclerosis and plaque formation.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that circulating EVs reflect plaque development in patients with symptomatic carotid artery stenosis, which can serve as biomarker candidates for detecting the presence of atherosclerotic plaques.

The "Bundle Wire" Technique: A Novel Approach to Cannulating Challenging Target Vessels Using Multiple Fine Atraumatic Guidewires That Together Serve as a Stiff Guidewire

PURPOSE

To present a novel technique that enables safe and effective cannulation of target vessels with challenging anatomy during fenestrated/branched endovascular aortic repair (F/B-EVAR).

TECHNIQUE

Following deployment of the F/B-EVAR endograft, the target vessels (TVs) are cannulated. The bundle wire technique provides a solution to challenging TVs and uses multiple fine atraumatic guidewires that together serve as a stiff guidewire. The technique can be executed in 2 ways using: (1) one 0.018 inch and one 0.014 inch guidewire or (2) three 0.014 inch guidewires. We demonstrate the technique in a case of a complex abdominal aortic aneurysm treated using branched EVAR in which the left renal artery with severe ostial stenosis was catheterized using the bundle wire technique.

CONCLUSIONS

The bundle wire technique offers a technically feasible and economically viable solution for facilitating catheter and bridging stent delivery in anatomically challenging TVs during F/B-EVAR. It is a useful addition to the therapeutic armamentarium available to physicians for accessing demanding TVs.

International Collaborative Study Comparing Outcomes of Fenestrated Endovascular Aortic Repair in OCtogenarian vs Non-Octogenarian Patients: The FEVOC study

OBJECTIVE

With an increasing life expectancy, more octogenarian patients are referred with complex aortic aneurysms (cAAA). The aim of this study was to evaluate short and mid-term outcomes following fenestrated aortic repair (FEVAR) in octogenarians.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Few studies looking at octogenarian-specific outcomes with diverging results.

METHODS

Retrospective, multicentre cohort study including consecutive patients undergoing elective FEVAR for cAAAs or type IV thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms between 2007-2022 in eight high-volume centres. Octogenarians vs. non-octogenarians were compared. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Secondary outcomes included 1, 2 and 5-year survival and reintervention rates.

RESULTS

A total of 729 patients (median age of 74.8 years [IQR 69.2 - 79.14]) were included, 169 (23%) of which were octogenarians, with 316 (43.3%) patients undergoing juxta/pararenal aneurysm repair. Although octogenarians presented less complex but larger (61 mm vs. 58 mm) aneurysms, the number of fenestrations was similar across groups. No differences in in-hospital mortality (4.1 vs. 3.0%), MAE (16.6% vs 12.2%) or reintervention rates (11.2 vs. 10%) were found. Multivariable logistic regression of in-hospital mortality identified BMI (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.51-0.95, P=0.003), chronic heart failure (OR 7.70, 95% CI 1.36-36.15, P=0.003) and GFR<45 ml/min/1.73 m2 (OR 5.25, 95% CI 1.20-22.86, P=0.027) as independent predictors. Median follow-up was 41 months. The 1, 2 and 5-year survival rates were 91.3%, 81.8% and 49.5% in octogenarians vs 90.6%, 86.5% and 68.8% in non-octogenarian patients (Log-rank: =0.001). Freedom from aortic-related death and freedom from reintervention at five-years were similar across groups (log-rank=0.94 and .76, respectively). Age>80 was not an independent predictor of 30-day or long-term mortality on multivariable and Cox regression analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Elective FEVAR in octogenarians appears to be safe, with similar outcomes as in younger patients. Future studies looking at improved patient selection methods to ensure long-term survival benefits in both octogenarians and younger patients are warranted.

Endovascular Repair With Triple Inner-Branch Endograft for Aberrant Subclavian Artery Aneurysm: A Case Report

BACKGROUND

Endovascular repair of the thoracic aorta (TEVAR) is the preferred option for the treatment of the distal arch and descending thoracic aorta. Fenestrated and branched TEVAR have become an option to treat pathologies of the aortic arch, avoiding sternotomy and cardiopulmonary arrest as well as total surgical debranching. We describe here the case of a symptomatic patient with an arteria lusoria aneurysm associated with Kommerel diverticulum who underwent total endovascular repair with a triple-branched TEVAR.

CASE REPORT

A 66-year-old male patient was treated for a symptomatic arteria lusoria artery associated with a Kommerel diverticulum, resulting in difficulty swallowing and choking. We used a custom-made triple inner-branch endograft (Cook Medical, Bloomington, Indiana) following implantation of a right-sided carotid-subclavian (C-S) bypass. The C-S bypass occluded in the interval time between the 2 procedures and required recanalization and stent-graft placement during the aortic arch procedure. The arteria lusoria was embolized with a vascular plug. No complications occurred and postoperative tomography showed exclusion and thrombosis of the Kommerel diverticulum and perfusion of the supra-aortic vessels.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of arteria lusoria aneurysms can be performed with total endovascular arch inner-branch repair, avoiding increased risk of morbidity and mortality caused by open or hybrid procedures.

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

OBJECTIVE

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

CLINICAL IMPACT

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

A Retrospective Analysis of 10-year Experience on Branched and Fenestrated Endovascular Aortic Arch Repair

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to present the early and mid-term outcomes of fenestrated/branched thoracic endovascular aortic repair (f/bTEVAR) for aortic arch pathologies.

BACKGROUND

f/bTEVAR represents a less invasive treatment option for aortic arch diseases. Previous published series showed decreased early mortality and morbidity compared to open repair.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective analysis of consecutive patients, managed with f/bTEVAR (Cook Medical, Bloomington, IN, USA) between 01.09.11and 30.06.22 was conducted. Primary outcomes were technical success, 30-day mortality and stroke. Data during follow-up and factors affecting early mortality and stroke were analyzed.

RESULTS

209 patients were included (38.3% females; mean age 69.8±3.4years; mean aortic diameter 61±4.7 mm); 14.4% were managed urgently. Fenestrations/scallop configuration was used in 39.7%, branched devices in 55.5% and branch/scallop combination in 4.8%. Landing to zone 0 was performed in 65.5% and in zone 1 in 32.1%. Non-native aortas were used for landing in 39.2%. Technical success was 97.1% and 30-day mortality 9.5%. Strokes were identified in 10%; 5.7% major. Non-native proximal aortic landing zone was an independent protective factor for stroke (P=0.002). Post-operative stroke (P<0.001) and pericardial effusion (P<0.001) were independently related to 30-day mortality. The mean follow-up was 21±8 months. The estimated survival and freedom from reintervention rates were 79.5% (standard error; SE3.1%) and 47.1% (SE 4.3%) at 24months, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

f/bTEVAR presented high technical success and acceptable 30-day mortality. Non-native proximal landing zone was related to lower stroke rate. Half of patients needed a reintervention within the 24-month follow-up.

Early and midterm outcomes of fenestrated and branched endovascular aortic repair in thoracoabdominal aneurysms types I through III

BACKGROUND

Fenestrated and branched endovascular aortic repair (F/BEVAR) of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) has shown high technical success and low early mortality rates. Aneurysm extent has been reported as a factor affecting outcomes. This study aimed to assess the early and midterm follow-up outcomes of patients managed by F/BEVAR for types I through III TAAAs.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective analysis was conducted, including data from consecutive, elective and urgent (symptomatic and ruptured cases), patients treated for types I through III TAAAs, between October 1, 2011, and October 1, 2022, using F/BEVAR. Degenerative and postdissection TAAAs were included. Patients received prophylactic cerebrospinal fluid drainage (CSFD), except those under therapeutic anticoagulation, those who were hemodynamically unstable, or those with failed CSFD application. When an initial thoracic endovascular aortic repair was performed, as part of a staged procedure, no CSFD was used. Later stages and nonstaged procedures were performed under CSFD. Thirty-day mortality and major adverse events (MAEs) were analyzed. Kaplan-Meier estimates were used for follow-up outcomes.

RESULTS

F/BEVAR for types I through III TAAAs was performed in 209 patients (56.9% males; mean age, 69.6 ± 3.2 years; mean aneurysm diameter, 65.2 ± 6.2 mm); 29.2% type I, 57.9% type II, and 12.9% type III. Urgent repair was performed in 26.7% of patients (56 cases; 23 ruptured and 33 symptomatic cases) and 153 were treated electively. Thirty-two patients (15.3%) were classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class IV. CSFD was used in 91% and staged thoracic endovascular aortic repair was performed in 51.2% of patients. Technical success was 93.8% (96.7% in elective vs 94.6% in urgent cases; P = .92). Thirty-day mortality was 11.0% (4.6% in elective vs 28.5% in urgent cases; P < .001) and MAEs were recorded in 17.2% of cases (7.8% in elective vs 42.8% in urgent cases; P < .001). Spinal cord ischemia rate was 20.5% (17.6% in elective vs 28.7% in urgent cases; P = .08), whereas 2.9% of patients presented paraplegia (1.3% in elective and 7.1% in urgent cases; P = .03). The mean follow-up was 16 ± 5 months. Survival was 75.0% (standard error, 4.0%) and freedom from reintervention was 73.3% (standard error, 4.4%) at 36 months. ASA IV and urgent repair were detected as independent factors related to early mortality and MAE, whereas ruptured aneurysm status was related to spinal cord ischemia evolution.

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular repair for types I through III TAAAs provides encouraging early outcomes in terms of mortality, MAE, and paraplegia, especially in an elective setting. Setting of repair and baseline ASA score should be taken into consideration during decision-making.

Outcome of the Be Graft Bridging Stent in Fenestrated Endovascular Aortic Repair in a High-Volume Single Center and an Overview of Current Evidence

OBJECTIVE

Fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR) has become one of the standard treatment options for complex abdominal aortic aneurysms (cAAAs) and thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs). Despite technological advances in the main endograft design, the lack of dedicated bridging stent-grafts (BSGs) is still the Achilles heel of the procedure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mid-term outcomes of the BeGraft stent-graft as a dedicated bridging stent for FEVAR and to review the current evidence in literature.

METHODS

Retrospective single center study, including all consecutive FEVARs performed between September 2018 and December 2022 for the treatment of cAAAs and TAAAs with implantation of at least one BeGraft peripheral as the main BSG in one of the target vessels (TVs). Primary endpoints were technical success and TV instability of TV bridged with a BeGraft stent, as well as 30-day mortality and re-intervention rates. Secondary endpoints were follow-up TV instability, re-interventions, and mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 113 patients (93 male, mean age 71.1±9.7) and 440 TV (14 scallops and 426 fenestrations) were included. Of the 440 TV, 406 received primary stenting. Be Grafts were used in 88.9% of these (n=361; celiac trunk [CT]=67, superior mesenteric artery [SMA]=98, right renal artery [RRA]=97, and left renal artery [LRA]=99). The technical success rate was 99.4% (359/361). The 30-day TV instability rate was 0.27% (1/361) with one early renal artery occlusion. During a median follow-up of 20 months (6-32), TV instability rate was 0.8% (3/361). Freedom from TV instability was 99.3%, 98.8%, and 98.8% at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Early-term and mid-term results regarding TV instability are satisfactory and support the use of BeGraft as BSG in FEVAR for cAAAs and TAAAs.

CLINICAL IMPACT

The findings of the current study show that the use of the BeGraft stent graft as bridging stent in FEVAR is associated with a high technical success and low early and mid-term instability rate and support the standard use as a bridging stent in fenestrated aneurysm repair.

Endovascular Repair of One-hundred Urgent and Emergent free or Contained Thoraco-abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Ruptures. An International Multi-Center Trans-Atlantic experience

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the outcomes of urgent/emergent endovascular aortic repair of patients with free/contained ruptured thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (rTAAA).

BACKGROUND

Endovascular repair of rTAAA has been scarcely described in emergent setting.

METHODS

An international multicenter retrospective observational study (ClinicalTrials.govID:NCT05956873) from January-2015 to January-2023 in 6 European and 1 United States Vascular Surgery Centers. Primary end-points were technical success, 30-day and/or in-hospital mortality and follow-up survival.

RESULTS

A total of 100 rTAAA patients were included (75 male; mean age 73 y). All patients (86 contained and 14 free ruptures) were symptomatic and treated within 24-hours from diagnosis: multi-branched off-the-shelf devices (Zenith t-branch,Cook Medical Inc.Bjaeverskov,Denmark) in 88 patients, physician-modified endografts in 8, patient-specific device or parallel grafts in two patients each. Primary technical success was achieved in 89 patients and 30-day and/or in-hospital mortality was 24%. Major adverse events (MAEs) occurred in 34% of patients (permanent dialysis and paraplegia in 4 and 8 patients, respectively). No statistical differences were detected in mortality rates between free and contained ruptured patients (43%vs.21%; P =0.075). Multivariate analysis revealed contained rupture favoring technical success (Odd-Ratio10.1;95%Confidence-Interval:3.0-33.6; P =<0.001). MAEs (OR9.4;95%C-I:2.8-30.5; P =<0.001) and pulmonary complications (OR11.3;95%CI:3.0-41.5; P =<0.001) were independent risk factors for 30-day and/or in-hospital mortality. Median follow-up time was 13 months (interquartile range 5-24); 1-year survival rate was 65%. Aneurysm diameter>80 mm (Hazard-Ratio:2.0;95%CI:1.0-30.5; P =0.037), technical failure (HR:2.6;95%CI:1.1-6.5; P =0.045) and pulmonary complications (HR:3.0;95%CI:1.2-7.9; P =0.021) were independent risk factors for follow-up mortality.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular repair of rTAAA shows high technical success; the presence of free rupture alone appear not to correlate with early mortality. Effective prevention/management of post-operative complications is crucial for survival.

Efficacy analysis following polymer coated drug eluting stent and bare metal stent deployment for femoropopliteal arterial disease

OBJECTIVES

The objective is to assess the performance of the Eluvia polymer coated drug eluting stent (DES) compared to a bare metal stent (BMS) platform in patients with femoropopliteal arterial disease.

METHODS

This is a retrospective, single-center analysis. Patients treated with the Eluvia DES (group Eluvia) or the EverFlex BMS (group BMS) for femoropopliteal disease between January 2013 and December 2019 were included. Primary measure outcome of this analysis was the overall mortality. The PTX specific mortality, the primary patency, the amputation free survival (AFS), and the target lesion revascularization (TLR) rates were additionally evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 124 patients were treated by BMS deployment, while the Eluvia platform was preferred in 75 subjects. In both groups the majority presented with lifestyle limiting claudication (BMS: 84% vs Eluvia: 73%, p = 0.73). Chronic total occlusions were more frequent in patients treated by BMS (BMS: 71% vs Eluvia: 84%, p = 0.027), whereas the calcification burden (BMS: 81% vs Eluvia: 76%, p = 0.43) and the median lesion length (in mm, IQR) (BMS: 160 (100 to 240) vs Eluvia: 140 (80 to 229), p = 0.17) were comparable. At 24 months, the overall survival (BMS: 93% vs Eluvia: 89%, hazard ratio (HR): 1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.55 to 2.64, p = 0.64) and the PTX specific survival (BMS: 95% vs Eluvia: 95%, HR: 1.28, 95% CI: 0.41 to 4.02, p = 0.67) did not differ significantly between the two platforms. No significant difference was observed regarding the 24 months primary patency rate (BMS: 66% vs Eluvia: 78%, HR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.37 to 1.15, p = 0.18), the freedom from TLR (BMS: 83% vs Eluvia: 89%, HR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.39 to 1.68, p = 0.572), and the AFS (BMS: 93 vs Eluvia: 89%, HR: 1.20, 95% CI: 0.55 to 2.64). The Cox regression analysis revealed a higher mortality risk among patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) (HR: 3.14, 95% CI: 1.61 to 6.14, p = 0.008), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (HR: 4.65, 95% CI: 2.14 to 10.09, p = 0.001), in octagenerians (HR: 4.40, 95% CI: 1.92 to 10.44, p = 0.005), and in patients not on statins at baseline (HR: 2.44, 95% CI: 1.19 to 4.99, p=0.014).

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort, the use of the Eluvia DES did not increase the risk for mortality compared to BMS deployment. CLTI, COPD, advanced age, and the lack of statin therapy at baseline were associated with a higher risk for death.

The impact of antibiotic stewardship interventions and patient related factors on antibiotic prescribing in a vascular surgical department

PURPOSE

The development of guidelines tailored to the departments' needs and counselling during ward rounds are important antibiotic stewardship (AS) strategies. The aim was to analyse the impact of AS ward rounds and institutional guidelines as well as patient-related factors on antibiotic use in vascular surgical patients.

METHODS

A retrospective prescribing-analysis of 3 months (P1, P2) before and after implementing weekly AS ward rounds and antimicrobial treatment guidelines was performed. Choice of systemic antibiotics, days of antibiotic therapy and clinical data were obtained from electronic patient records.

RESULTS

During P2, the overall antibiotic consumption as well as the use of last-resort compounds like linezolid and fluoroquinolones decreased distinctly (overall: 47.0 days of therapy (DOT)/100 patient days (PD) vs. 35.3 DOT/100PD, linezolid: 3.7 DOT/100PD vs. 1.0 DOT/100PD, fluoroquinolones: 7.0 DOT/100PD vs. 3.2 DOT/100PD) while narrow-spectrum beta-lactams increased by 48.4%. Courses of antibiotics were de-escalated more often during P2 (30.5% vs. 12.1%, p = 0.011). Only in P2, an antibiotic therapy was initiated in patients suffering from more comorbidities (i.e. higher Charlson Comorbidity Index) more frequently. Other patient factors had no distinct impact on antibiotic prescribing.

CONCLUSION

Weekly AS ward rounds improved adherence to institutional antibiotic treatment guidelines and antibiotic prescribing in vascular surgical patients. Clear patient-related determinants affecting choice of antibiotic therapies could not be identified.

Burden of Stroke in Europe: An Analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study Findings From 2010 to 2019

BACKGROUND

While most European Regions perform well in global comparisons, large discrepancies within stroke epidemiological parameters exist across Europe. The objective of this analysis was to evaluate the stroke burden across European regions and countries in 2019 and its difference to 2010.

METHODS

The GBD 2019 analytical tools were used to evaluate regional and country-specific estimates of incidence, prevalence, deaths, and disability-adjusted life years of stroke for the European Region as defined by the World Health Organization, with its 53 member countries (EU-53) and for European Union as defined in 2019, with its 28 member countries (EU-28), between 2010 and 2019. Results were analyzed at a regional, subregional, and country level.

RESULTS

In EU-53, the absolute number of incident and prevalent strokes increased by 2% (uncertainty interval [UI], 0%-4%), from 1 767 280 to 1 802 559 new cases, and by 4% (UI, 3%-5%) between 2010 and 2019, respectively. In EU-28, the absolute number of prevalent strokes and stroke-related deaths increased by 4% (UI, 2%-5%) and by 6% (UI, 1%-10%), respectively. All-stroke age-standardized mortality rates, however, decreased by 18% (UI, -22% to -14%), from 82 to 67 per 100 000 people in the EU-53, and by 15% (UI, -18% to -11%), from 49.3 to 42.0 per 100 000 people in EU-28. Despite most countries presenting reductions in age-adjusted incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life year rates, these rates remained 1.4×, 1.2×, 1.6×, and 1.7× higher in EU-53 in comparison to the EU-28.

CONCLUSIONS

EU-53 showed a 2% increase in incident strokes, while they remained stable in EU-28. Age-standardized rates were consistently lower for all-stroke burden parameters in EU-28 in comparison to EU-53, and huge discrepancies in incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life-year rates were observed between individual countries.

Editor's Choice -- European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2024 Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Abdominal Aorto-Iliac Artery Aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

The European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) has developed clinical practice guidelines for the care of patients with aneurysms of the abdominal aorta and iliac arteries in succession to the 2011 and 2019 versions, with the aim of assisting physicians and patients in selecting the best management strategy.

METHODS

The guideline is based on scientific evidence completed with expert opinion on the matter. By summarising and evaluating the best available evidence, recommendations for the evaluation and treatment of patients have been formulated. The recommendations are graded according to a modified European Society of Cardiology grading system, where the strength (class) of each recommendation is graded from I to III and the letters A to C mark the level of evidence.

RESULTS

A total of 160 recommendations have been issued on the following topics: Service standards, including surgical volume and training; Epidemiology, diagnosis, and screening; Management of patients with small abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), including surveillance, cardiovascular risk reduction, and indication for repair; Elective AAA repair, including operative risk assessment, open and endovascular repair, and early complications; Ruptured and symptomatic AAA, including peri-operative management, such as permissive hypotension and use of aortic occlusion balloon, open and endovascular repair, and early complications, such as abdominal compartment syndrome and colonic ischaemia; Long term outcome and follow up after AAA repair, including graft infection, endoleaks and follow up routines; Management of complex AAA, including open and endovascular repair; Management of iliac artery aneurysm, including indication for repair and open and endovascular repair; and Miscellaneous aortic problems, including mycotic, inflammatory, and saccular aortic aneurysm. In addition, Shared decision making is being addressed, with supporting information for patients, and Unresolved issues are discussed.

CONCLUSION

The ESVS Clinical Practice Guidelines provide the most comprehensive, up to date, and unbiased advice to clinicians and patients on the management of abdominal aorto-iliac artery aneurysms.

Editor's Choice - Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Contemporary Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Growth Rates

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the contemporary growth rate of small abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) in view of recent epidemiological changes, such as decreasing smoking rates and establishment of population screening programmes.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, Web of Science Core Collection, and OpenGrey databases.

REVIEW METHODS

Systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines. In October 2021, databases were queried for studies reporting on AAA growth rates published from 2015 onwards. The primary outcome was contemporary AAA growth rates in mm/year. Data were pooled in a random effects model meta-analysis, and heterogeneity was assessed through the I2 statistic. GRADE assessment of the findings was performed. The protocol was published in PROSPERO (CRD42022297404).

RESULTS

Of 8 717 titles identified, 43 studies and 28 277 patients were included: 1 241 patients from randomised controlled trials (RCTs), 23 941 from clinical observational studies, and 3 095 from radiological or translational research studies. The mean AAA growth rate was 2.38 mm/year (95% CI 2.16 - 2.60 mm/year; GRADE = low), with meta-regression analysis adjusted for baseline diameter showing an increase of 0.08 mm/year (95% CI 0.024 - 0.137 mm/year; p = .005) for each millimetre of increased baseline diameter. When analysed by study type, the growth rate estimated from RCTs was 1.88 mm/year (95% CI 1.69 - 2.06 mm/year; GRADE = high), while it was 2.31 mm/year (95% CI 1.95 - 2.67 mm/year; GRADE = moderate) from clinical observational studies, and 2.85 mm/year (95% CI 2.44 - 3.26 mm/year; GRADE = low) from translational and radiology based studies (p < .001). Heterogeneity was high, and small study publication bias was present (p = .003), with 27 studies presenting a moderate to high risk of bias. The estimated growth rate from low risk studies was 2.09 mm/year (95% CI 1.87 - 2.32; GRADE = high).

CONCLUSION

This study estimated a contemporaneous AAA growth rate of 2.38 mm/year, being unable to demonstrate any clinically meaningful AAA growth rate reduction concomitant with changed AAA epidemiology. This suggests that the RESCAN recommendations on small AAA surveillance are still valid. However, sub-analysis results from RCTs and high quality study data indicate potential lower AAA growth rates of 1.88 - 2.09 mm/year, findings that should be validated in a high quality prospective registry.

4-Axis 3D-Printed Tubular Biomaterials Imitating the Anisotropic Nanofiber Orientation of Porcine Aortae

Many of the peculiar properties of the vasculature are related to the arrangement of anisotropic proteinaceous fibers in vessel walls. Understanding and imitating these arrangements can potentially lead to new therapies for cardiovascular diseases. These can be pre-surgical planning, for which patient-specific ex vivo anatomical models for endograft testing are of interest. Alternatively, therapies can be based on tissue engineering, for which degradable in vitro cell growth substrates are used to culture replacement parts. In both cases, materials are desirable that imitate the biophysical properties of vessels, including their tubular shapes and compliance. This work contributes to these demands by offering methods for the manufacturing of anisotropic 3D-printed nanofibrous tubular structures that have similar biophysical properties as porcine aortae, that are biocompatible, and that allow for controlled nutrient diffusion. Tubes of various sizes with axial, radial, or alternating nanofiber orientation along the blood flow direction are manufactured by a customized method. Blood pressure-resistant, compliant, stable, and cell culture-compatible structures are obtained, that can be degraded in vitro on demand. It is suggested that these healthcare materials can contribute to the next generation of cardiovascular therapies of ex vivo pre-surgical planning or in vitro cell culture.

Outcomes of Fenestrated and Branched Endografts for Partial and Total Endovascular Repair of the Aortic Arch - A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Fenestrated and branched thoracic endovascular aortic repair (F/B-TEVAR) of the aortic arch is a viable approach in patients unsuitable for open repair. The aim was to summarise the published results of manufactured F/B-TEVAR devices for partial and total repair of the aortic arch, and to compare fenestrated with branched configurations.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Scopus and The Cochrane Library were searched for articles (2018 - 2021) about patients with elective, urgent, or emergency aortic requiring a proximal landing zone in the aortic arch (zone 0 - 1 - 2) and treated by F/B-TEVAR.

REVIEW METHODS

The systematic review and meta-analysis were performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. Open repair, supra-aortic trunk (SAT) debranching + standard TEVAR, and in situ physician modified and parallel grafts were excluded. Primary outcomes were technical success and 30 day mortality rate. Secondary outcomes were 30 day major adverse events, and overall survival and procedure related endpoints during follow up.

RESULTS

Of 458 articles screened, 18 articles involving 571 patients were selected. Indications for intervention were chronic dissections (50.1%), degenerative aneurysms (39.6%), penetrating aortic ulcers (7.4%), and pseudoaneurysms (2%). F-TEVAR, B-TEVAR, and F+B-TEVAR were used in 38.4%, 54.1%, and 7.5% of patients, respectively. Overall, technical success was 95.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.93 - 0.97; I2 = 0%; p for heterogeneity (Het) = .77) and the 30 day mortality rate was 6.7% (95% CI 0.05 - 0.09; I2 = 0%; p Het = .66). No statistical differences were found comparing fenestrated with branched endografts, except for a higher rate of type I - III endoleaks in F-TEVAR (9.8% vs. 2.6%; p = .034). The overall survival rate and freedom from aortic related death at the one year follow up ranged between 82 - 96.4% and 94 - 94.7%, respectively. Thirteen and five studies were considered at moderate and high risk of bias, respectively.

CONCLUSION

F/B-TEVAR for the treatment of the aortic arch, according to experience in dedicated centres, now enjoys a satisfactory level of technical success together with a progressively reduced early mortality rate. There are several limitations, and further studies are needed to reach clearer conclusions.

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.

Outcomes After Open Surgical, Hybrid, and Endovascular Revascularization for Acute Limb Ischemia

PURPOSE

To report the performance of surgical treatment (ST), hybrid treatment (HT), and endovascular treatment (ET) for patients with acute limb ischemia (ALI).

METHODS

This is a retrospective, comparative study of all consecutive patients with ALI treated in 2 tertiary centers between April 2010 and April 2020. Amputation and/or death (amputation-free survival; AFS) was the primary composite endpoint. Mortality, major amputation, and reintervention during follow-up were additionally analyzed. Proportional hazards modeling was used to identify confounders, results are presented as hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

In total, 395 patients (mean age=71.1±13.6 years; 51.1% female) were treated during the study period. Surgical treatment was preferred in 150 patients (38%), while 98 were treated by HT (24.8%) and 147 by ET (37.2%). Rutherford class IIa was the most common clinical presentation in the ET group (50.3%), whereas Rutherford IIb was most common in the ST (54%) and HT (48%) groups (p<0.001). Significantly, more patients presented with a de novo lesion in the ST and HT groups (79.3% and 64.3%, respectively) compared with ET (53.7%; p<0.001). Median follow-up was 20 months (range=0-111 months). In the multivariate analysis, ET showed significantly better AFS during follow-up compared with ST (HR=1.89, 95% CI=1.2-2.9, p<0.001) and HT (HR=1.73, 95% CI=1.1-3.1, p<0.001). Mortality during follow-up was also significantly lower after ET compared with ST (HR=2.21, 95% CI=1.31-3.74, p=0.003) and HT (HR=2.04, 95% CI=1.17-3.56, p=0.012). Endovascular treatment was associated with lower amputation rate compared with ST (HR=2.27, 95% CI=1.19-4.35, p=0.013) but was comparable with HT (HR=2.00, 95% CI=0.98-4.06, p=0.055). Reintervention rates did not differ significantly between the groups (ET vs ST: HR=1.52, 95% CI=0.99-2.31, p=0.053; ET vs HT: HR=1.3, 95% CI=0.81-2.07, p=0.27).

CONCLUSION

Endovascular treatment for ALI was associated with improved AFS and comparable reintervention rates compared with open surgical and hybrid therapy.

CLINICAL IMPACT

Treatment of acute lower limb ischemia remains a challenge for clinicians with high morbidity and mortality rates. Endovascular revascularization is considered first line treatment for many and hybrid treatments are becoming more common, however data is limited to either old trials, small series or with short follow-up. We present herein our 10-year experience with all available devices and techniques for open surgical, endovascular and hybrid acute limb ischemia treatments and compare their outcomes.

Endovascular arch repair of anastomotic aneurysm and pseudoaneurysm in patients after open repair of the ascending aorta and aortic arch: a case series

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to investigate the outcomes of branched endovascular arch repair (b-TEVAR) with a custom-made double- or triple-branched arch endograft in patients with distal anastomotic aneurysms after open repair of the ascending aorta or proximal arch replacement.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis was conducted of all consecutive patients with anastomotic aneurysms after open surgical repair involving the ascending aorta and/or aortic arch treated with b-TEVAR. All patients were treated with a custom-made double or triple inner-branched arch endograft. Study end points were technical success, 30-day and follow-up mortality/morbidity and re-interventions.

RESULTS

Between 2018 and 2022, 10 patients were treated with custom-made double- or triple-branched thoracic endovascular aortic repair due to anastomotic aneurysms after open ascending aorta and/or proximal aortic arch replacement. Eight patients received a triple and 2 a double arch-branched endograft. Eight cases were performed electively and 2 urgently for contained rupture. Technical success was achieved in 9 cases (90%). All elective patients survived. Two patients treated due to contained ruptures expired. Within 30 postoperative days, 1 transient ischaemic attack occurred. No early endograft-related re-interventions were necessary. The median follow-up was 20 months. One patient died 2 months after discharge due to sepsis caused by pneumonia. No further deaths or endograft-related re-interventions were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular aortic arch repair with double or triple inner-branched arch endograft for anastomotic aneurysms after open ascending and/or proximal arch replacement is technically feasible and a promising alternative in a patient cohort unfit for surgery.

Outcomes of Elective and Non-elective Fenestrated-branched Endovascular Aortic Repair for Treatment of Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

To describe outcomes after elective and non-elective fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair (FB-EVAR) for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs).

BACKGROUND

FB-EVAR has been increasingly utilized to treat TAAAs; however, outcomes after non-elective versus elective repair are not well described.

METHODS

Clinical data of consecutive patients undergoing FB-EVAR for TAAAs at 24 centers (2006-2021) were reviewed. Endpoints including early mortality and major adverse events (MAEs), all-cause mortality, and aortic-related mortality (ARM), were analyzed and compared in patients who had non-elective versus elective repair.

RESULTS

A total of 2603 patients (69% males; mean age 72±10 year old) underwent FB-EVAR for TAAAs. Elective repair was performed in 2187 patients (84%) and non-elective repair in 416 patients [16%; 268 (64%) symptomatic, 148 (36%) ruptured]. Non-elective FB-EVAR was associated with higher early mortality (17% vs 5%, P <0.001) and rates of MAEs (34% vs 20%, P <0.001). Median follow-up was 15 months (interquartile range, 7-37 months). Survival and cumulative incidence of ARM at 3 years were both lower for non-elective versus elective patients (50±4% vs 70±1% and 21±3% vs 7±1%, P <0.001). On multivariable analysis, non-elective repair was associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 1.92; 95% CI] 1.50-2.44; P <0.001) and ARM (hazard ratio, 2.43; 95% CI, 1.63-3.62; P <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Non-elective FB-EVAR of symptomatic or ruptured TAAAs is feasible, but carries higher incidence of early MAEs and increased all-cause mortality and ARM than elective repair. Long-term follow-up is warranted to justify the treatment.

Transatlantic multicenter study on the use of a modified preloaded delivery system for fenestrated endovascular aortic repair

OBJECTIVE

Analyze the outcomes of endovascular complex abdominal and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair using the Cook fenestrated device with the modified preloaded delivery system (MPDS) with a biport handle and preloaded catheters.

METHODS

A multicenter retrospective single arm cohort study was performed, including all consecutive patients with complex abdominal aortic aneurysm repair and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms treated with the MPDS fenestrated device (Cook Medical). Patient clinical characteristics, anatomy, and indications for device use were collected. Outcomes, classified according to the Society for Vascular Surgery reporting standards, were collected at discharge, 30 days, 6 months, and annually thereafter.

RESULTS

Overall, 712 patients (median age, 73 years; interquartile range [IQR], 68-78 years; 83% male) from 16 centers in Europe and the United States treated electively were included: 35.4% (n = 252) presented with thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms and 64.6% (n = 460) with complex abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Overall, 2755 target vessels were included (mean ,3.9 per patient). Of these, 1628 were incorporated via ipsilateral preloads using the MPDS (1440 accessed from the biport handle and 188 from above). The mean size of the contralateral femoral sheath during target vessel catheterization was 15F ± 4, and in 41 patients (6.7%) the sheath size was ≤8F. Technical success was 96.1%. Median procedural time was 209 minutes (IQR, 161-270 minutes), contrast volume was 100 mL (IQR, 70-150mL), fluoroscopy time was 63.9 minutes (IQR, 49.7-80.4 minutes) and median cumulative air kerma radiation dose was 2630 mGy (IQR, 838-5251 mGy). Thirty-day mortality was 4.8% (n = 34). Access complications occurred in 6.8% (n = 48) and 30-day reintervention in 7% (n = 50; 18 branch related). Follow-up of >30 days was available for 628 patients (88%), with a median follow-up of 19 months (IQR, 8-39 months). Branch-related endoleaks (type Ic/IIIc) were observed in 15 patients (2.6%) and aneurysm growth of >5 mm was observed in 54 (9.5%). Freedom from reintervention at 12 and 24 months was 87.1% (standard error [SE],1.5%) and 79.2% (SE, 2.0%), respectively. Overall target vessel patency at 12 and 24 months was 98.6% (SE, 0.3%) and 96.8% (SE, 0.4%), respectively, and was 97.9% (SE, 0.4%) and 95.3% (SE, 0.8%) for arteries stented from below using the MPDS, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The MPDS is safe and effective. Overall benefits include a decrease in contralateral sheath size in the treatment of complex anatomies with favorable results.

[Late Open Semi-conversion with Endograft Preservation for (Type II) Endoleaks with Late Aneurysm Sac Enlargement after EVAR - Indications, Method and Results in Our Own Patient Collective]

EVAR (endovascular aortic repair) is the most common method for treating an abdominal aortic aneurysm, but according to the latest findings it carries the risk of subsequent complications. These can be caused by (late) aneurysm sac growth. If conservative and surgical therapies fail to treat the aneurysm sac growth, open conversion is necessary to prevent aneurysm rupture. There are several options for open conversion, in which the EVAR prosthesis can be completely preserved or is (partially) removed. Late open semi-conversion with complete in-situ preservation of the EVAR-prosthesis and gathering of the aneurysm sac are a less invasive method than complete conversion and may be performed instead for selected patients. The aim of the present work is to present the surgical method, including indications and technical information, as well as the presentation of the results in our recent patient collective.All patients semi-converted in our department of vascular surgery and phlebology due to (type II) endoleak were included. All data are presented as n (%) or median (range).Between 6/2019 and 3/2023, 13 patients underwent semi-conversion 6 (2-12) years (median, range) after the initial EVAR. The aneurysm sac diameter at the time of semi-conversion was 69 mm (58-95 mm), the operating time was 114 min (97-147 min), the blood loss was 100 ml (100-1500 ml). Five (38%) patients received blood transfusion intraoperatively and 2 (15%) postoperatively. The stay in the intensive care unit lasted 1 (1-5) days, the hospitalisation time was 8 (6-11) days. Postoperative complications were intestinal atony (3 [23%], 1 [8%] with nausea/emesis and gastric tube insertion), anaemia (2 [15%]), hyponatraemia (2 [15%]), delirium (1 [8%]), COVID-19 infection (1 [8%]) and 1 [8%] intra-abdominal postoperative bleeding with the indication for surgical revision and the transfusion of 8 erythrocyte concentrates.Semi-conversion is a safe and practicable surgical method with few severe complications for a selected group of patients, which should be considered as an alternative to more invasive methods with (partial) removal of the EVAR-prosthesis. Further long-term studies comparing semi-conversion to full conversion are needed to demonstrate its benefits.

Cervical Debranching: Regional versus General Anesthesia for Carotid-Subclavian Bypass. A Single Center Experience

BACKGROUND

We report here the first cohort study comparing regional and general anaesthesia for left subclavian artery (LSA) revascularization.

METHODS

A single-centre retrospective cohort study was performed, including all consecutive patients who underwent cervical debranching with carotid-subclavian bypass before aortic repair from February 2018 to May 2022. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the type of anesthesia: Regional anesthesia (RA) versus general anesthesia (GA). Primary endpoints included the following: 1) technical success of RA and 2) neurological complications (NCs) (stroke and peripheral neurological lesions). Secondary endpoints included postoperative bleeding, wound complications, 30-day reintervention rate, and midterm events.

RESULTS

Eighty-three patients were included in the study. The mean age was 64 years (interquartile range [IQR]:13.5) and 69% were male. Thirty-seven patients (44.5%) were performed under RA. Technical success of RA was 89.2%. Two minor strokes (2.4%) were observed in the GA group (P = 0.199). Peripheral neurological disorders occurred in 4 patients (4.8%) (RA group n = 1 (2.7%), GA group n = 3 (6.5%), P = 0.491). 30-day complication rate was 27.7% (n = 23, GA: n = 15 (32.6%), RA: n = 8 (21.6%), P = 0.266). 30-day reintervention rate was 14.5% (n = 12) ten bleeding complications (12%) (RA group n = 3 (8.1%), GA group n = 7 (15.2%), P = 0.323), and 2 seroma evacuations (2.4%) in the RA group. The incidence of superficial wound infections was n = 6 (7.2%) (RA group n = 2 (5.4%), GA group n = 4 (8.7%), P = 0.565). Median follow-up time was 22 months (IQR 22 min/max 1-44).

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort, RA for carotid subclavian bypass surgery proved to be a feasible and effective anesthetic procedure compared with GA.

In vitro evaluation of the optimal degree of oversizing of thoracic endografts in prosthetic landing areas: a pilot study

Objective

The optimal degree of proximal thoracic endograft oversizing when aiming for durable sealing in prosthetic grafts is unknown. The aim of the present study was to create an in vitro model for testing different oversized thoracic endografts in a reproducible and standardized manner and, subsequently, determine the optimal oversizing range when planning procedures with a proximal landing in prosthetic zones in the descending thoracic aorta or aortic arch.

Methods

An in vitro model consisting of a fixed 24-mm polyethylene terephthalate (Dacron; DuPont) graft sutured proximally and distally to two specifically designed 40-mm rings, with four force sensing resistors attached at four equally distant positions and a USB camera attached proximally for photographic and video documentation was used for deployment of Zenith TX2 (Cook Medical Inc) dissection platform endografts with diameters between 24 and 36 mm. After deployment, ballooning with a 32-mm compliant balloon was performed to simulate real-life conditions. The assessment of oversizing included visual inspection, calculation of the valley areas created between the prosthetic wall and the stent graft fabric, distance between the stent graft peaks, the radial force exerted by the proximal sealing stent, and the pull-out force necessary for endograft extraction.

Results

A total of 70 endografts were deployed with the oversizing ranging from 0% to 50%: 10 × 24 mm, 10 × 26 mm, 10 × 28 mm, 10 × 30 mm, 10 × 32 mm, 10 × 34 mm, and 10 × 36 mm. Two cases of infolding occurred with 50% oversizing. The valley areas increased from 8.79 ± 0.23 mm² with 16.7% oversizing to 14.26 ± 0.45 mm² with 50% oversizing (P < .001). A significant difference was found in the pull-out force required for endografts with <10% oversizing vs ≥10% oversizing (P < .001). The difference reached a plateau at ∼4 N with oversizing of >15%. The mean radial force of the proximal sealing stent was greater after remodeling with a compliant balloon (0.55 ± 0.02 N vs 0.60 ± 0.02 N after ballooning; P < .001). However, greater oversizing did not lead to an increase in the radial force exerted by the proximal sealing stent.

Conclusions

The findings from the present study offer additional insight into the mechanics of oversized stent grafts in surgical grafts. In endografts with the Zenith stent design (TX2), oversizing of <16.7% resulted in reduced resistance to displacement forces, and oversizing of >50% was associated with major infolding in 20% of cases. Long-term in vitro and in vivo testing is required to understand how these mechanical properties affect the clinical outcomes of oversizing.

Expert opinion: How to treat type IA endoleakage

Type Ia endoleaks due to failed sealing or loss of landing zone and the adequate management thereof remain crucial for long-term therapeutic success following TEVAR. This expert opinion summarizes our institutional experience with endovascular, open surgical, and hybrid techniques in the context of recent scientific publications. The rapid turnover of technical innovations, but most importantly outcome data demonstrate the requirement for increasingly patient-tailored treatment strategies and the need for specialized aortic centers. The latter should offer a complete range of treatment options, an adequate perioperative management, and the highest level of multidisciplinary expertise.

Secondary Endovascular Conversions for Failed Open Repair

Late aortic and graft-related complications after open aortic repair are not infrequent and a significant number of them are missed, diagnosed at a very late stage, or present as urgent complications such as aortic rupture or aorto-enteric fistula. Once a late complication is diagnosed and reintervention is necessary, both open and endovascular strategies are possible. Open reintervention is complex and usually associated with very high rates of morbidity and mortality. Endovascular techniques may offer several solutions for these cases, which may be tailored to the patient and specific complication. In this review, we aim to summarize current indications, options, and strategies for endovascular salvage after failed or complicated open surgical repair.

Two-year target vessel-related outcomes following use of off-the-shelf branched endografts for the treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess clinical outcomes and target vessel patency through 2 years following thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAA) repair with the off-the-shelf Zenith t-Branch Thoracoabdominal Endovascular Graft (William Cook Europe).

METHODS

This post-market observational study was conducted at three European sites with ambispective enrollment from 2012 to 2017. Patients underwent endovascular TAAA repair with the t-Branch graft and bridging stent grafts (BSGs) for the celiac (CA), superior mesenteric (SMA), left renal (LRA), and/or right renal (RRA) arteries. Follow-up was through 2 years, per sites' standard of care. Procedural and 1-year results were reported previously.

RESULTS

Eighty patients (mean age, 71.0±7.4 years; 70.0% men) were enrolled; six patients had symptomatic TAAAs, and 15 patients had contained ruptures. Technical success was achieved in 98.8% of patients (79/80). Median follow-up was 22.2 months (interquartile range, 9.2-25.1 months). At 24 months, Kaplan-Meier (KM) freedom from all-cause and aneurysm-related mortality were 78.5% and 98.6%, respectively. Beyond 12 months, 38 adverse events occurred in 20 patients, including two aortic ruptures (one study aneurysm and one non-study aneurysm) and six deaths (none aneurysm-related, as reported by the site). Compared with postprocedure, maximum aneurysm diameter decreased (>5 mm) in 84.6% (44/52), remained unchanged in 3.8% (2/52), and increased (>5 mm) in 11.5% (6/52) of patients with imaging follow-up after 12 months. No conversions to open repair, and no t-Branch graft or other endograft component migration or integrity issues were reported. No loss of patency was reported in the t-Branch or iliac limb grafts throughout the study. Throughout study duration, four patients had five imaging-reported BSG compressions, none of which required secondary intervention. KM freedom from secondary intervention was 76.3% at 24 months. Fourteen target vessel-related secondary interventions were performed, primarily consisting of stent placement for endoleak, stenosis, or occlusion. KM freedom from loss of primary patency was 94.8%, 100%, 91.3%, and 89.3% for the CA, SMA, LRA, and RRA, respectively, at 24 months. KM freedom from loss of secondary patency in the CA, SMA, LRA, and RRA were 96.3%, 100%, 98.2%, and 98.3% at 24 months, respectively. A total of 298 vessels were targeted, of which 12 were occluded over the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary and secondary target vessel patency rates through 2 years demonstrated durable repair with the t-Branch graft in patients treated for symptomatic or asymptomatic thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.

Physician Modification of a Custom-Made Fenestrated Endograft By Closure of a Fenestration With Bovine Patch

PURPOSE

Ruptured mycotic pararenal aortic aneurysms are rare and serious condition that requires prompt treatment. Open surgery with aortic resection and in-situ or extra-anatomic reconstruction is the standard treatment. The aim of this technical note is to report urgent endovascular treatment using a readily available custom-made device (created for another patient), with a back-table modification using pericardium patch and a new fenestration.

TECHNIQUE

In preoperative measurements on centerline-based workstation, aortic diameter in proximal and distal landing zone and target vessel position matched the measurements of graft plan of custom-made device (CMD) besides left renal artery. To address current patient`s anatomy, closure of the nonsuitable fenestration with pericardial patch and creation of new fenestration (1 cm above and 1:15 hours posterior to original fenestration) for the respective target vessel have been performed. Postoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) scan showed complete exclusion of aneurysm, perfused target vessels, and no endoleak. Under resistance-based antibiotic therapy, the patient was asymptomatic and showed normal infection parameters in blood samples postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

In the hands of an experienced endovascular aortic surgeon modification of a custom-made device is a quick and feasible technique in this emergency situation. Long-term follow-up must confirm the durability and reliability of this new technique.

CLINICAL IMPACT

The described technique of modification of a custom-made endograft can provide an alternative endovascular treatment option for urgent complex abdominal aortic pathologies. Compared to the current available treatment modalities, like physician modified endografts, off-the-shelf branched devices, parallel grafts and in-situ fenestration, it can save considerable time and provides reasonable sealing in ruptured cases. The technique offers a valuable add-on to the armamentarium of experienced endovascular physicians.

Custom Made Candy Plug for Distal False Lumen Occlusion in Aortic Dissection: International Experience

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate early and midterm outcomes of the Candy Plug (CP) technique for distal false lumen (FL) occlusion in thoracic endovascular aortic repair for aortic dissection (AD) in a more real world cohort of patients from an international multicentre registry.

METHODS

A multicentre retrospective study was conducted of all consecutive patients from the contributing centres with subacute and chronic AD treated with the CP technique from October 2013 to April 2020 at 18 centres.

RESULTS

A custom made CP was used in 155 patients (92 males, mean age 62 ± 11 years). Fourteen (9%) presented with ruptured false lumen aneurysms. Technical success was achieved in all patients (100%). Clinical success was achieved in 138 patients (89%). The median hospital stay was 7 days (1 - 77). The 30 day mortality rate was 3% (n = 5). Stroke occurred in four patients (3%). Spinal cord ischaemia occurred in three patients (2%). The 30 day computed tomography angiogram (CTA) confirmed successful CP placement at the intended level in all patients. Early complete FL occlusion was achieved in 120 patients (77%). Early (30 day) CP related re-intervention was required in four patients (3%). The early (30 day) stent graft related re-intervention rate was 8% (n = 12). Follow up CTA was available in 142 patients (92%), with a median follow up of 23 months (6 - 87). Aneurysmal regression was achieved in 68 of 142 patients (47%); the aneurysm diameter remained stable in 69 of 142 patients (49%) and increased in five of 142 patients (4%). A higher rate of early FL occlusion was detected in the largest volume centre patients (50 [88%] vs. 70 [71%] from other centres; p = .019). No other differences in outcome were identified regarding volume of cases or learning curve.

CONCLUSION

This international CP technique experience confirmed its feasibility and low mortality and morbidity rates. Aortic remodelling and false lumen thrombosis rates were high and support the concept of distal FL occlusion in AD using the CP technique.

[Malperfusion after Aortic Dissection - Management and Techniques]

Malperfusion is a common complication of aortic dissection and further increases this deadly disease's mortality. An effective treatment strategy requires a timely diagnosis based on the clinical findings and the available instruments, understanding the disease's pathomechanism, recognising the therapy options recommended by the guidelines, and the diagnostic and therapeutic innovations of the area of research. The final treatment decision should be patient- and case-specific. In this work, we have considered malperfusion after aortic dissection, not only as a complication of aortic dissection but as a separate disease and summarise important information that can contribute to efficient therapy decisions in everyday clinical practice.

Common Designs of Custom-Made Fenestrated Arch Devices and Applicability of an Off-the-Shelf Design

OBJECTIVES

To analyze device designs, similarities and overlaps of custom-made fenestrated arch endografts intended for mid/distal arch thoracic endovascular aortic repair.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A multicenter cross-sectional study analyzing custom-made anonymized graft plans was performed. Graft plans were included from a cohort of mid/distal aortic arch repairs using custom-made fenestrated aortic endografts treated at 8 centers. Grafts targeting >2 arteries were excluded. No patient/clinical data were analyzed. A descriptive analysis was performed followed by an analysis of overlap of the designs to reach a common design in which the greatest number of grafts would overlap.

RESULTS

One hundred thirty-one graft plans were included. All grafts were custom-made grafts from the COOK Medical Fenestrated arch platform. Ninety-four (71.8%) had a scallop-and-single-fenestration design, 33 (25.2%) had a single fenestration and 4 (4.3%) a single scallop. For analysis purposes, these latter 4 grafts were excluded. Two main graft plans (Plans 1 and 2) were proposed after analysis with similar configuration (1 scallop with 30 mm width, 20 mm height, 12:00 position; 1 preloaded fenestration with 8 mm diameter, 26 mm from the top of the graft and 12:00 position; tapered, with a 193 mm length and 32 mm distal diameter) but with 2 different proximal diameters of 38 mm (Plan 1) and 44 mm (Plan 2), reaching an overall feasibility of 85.8% (n=109), being 47.2% (n=60) and 38.6% (n=49) for each design, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The degree of overlap between the studied fenestrated and/or scalloped thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) graft designs was high. Future studies analyzing these designs in a real-world cohort of patients are needed to further address off-the-shelf feasibility.

CLINICAL IMPACT

In a multicenter study analyzing 127 fenestrated aortic arch endograft plans from 9 aortic centers, we found that the degree of overlap between the studied fenestrated and/or scalloped arch graft designs was high and that 2 proposed graft designs would be theoretically applicable in 85.8% of cases. Future studies analyzing these designs in a real-world cohort of patients are needed to further address off-the-shelf feasibility.

Hybrid and open repair for patients with acute limb ischemia of the lower extremities

BACKGROUND

Hybrid revascularization procedures for acute limb ischemia (ALI) are becoming increasingly common, bibliographic data on outcomes is however sparse.

METHODS

Single-center, retrospective study of consecutive patients with ALI that underwent either surgical treatment (ST) or hybrid treatment (HT) between January 2015 and December 2021. The composite outcome of amputation-free survival (AFS) was the primary endpoint. Technical success, overall survival, amputation, and re-intervention rates were the secondary endpoints.

RESULTS

During the study period 266 patients (mean age 70.2±14.5 years; 49.6% males) were treated for ALI, 67.3% undergoing ST and 32.7% HT. HT was more frequently used in patients with a previous vascular intervention in the index limb (38/87; 43.7% HT vs. 40/179; 22.3% ST, P=0.001), a stent- or stent graft-occlusion (16/87; 18.4% HT vs. 10/179; 5.6% ST, P=0.002) and/or a bypass occlusion (16/87; 18.4% HT vs. 16/179; 8.9% ST, P=0.043). Technical success was higher in the OR group (75/87; 86.2% HT vs. 173/179; 96.6% ST, P=0.003). Amputation-free survival rate during follow-up (43/87; 49.4% HT vs. 94/179; 52.5% ST, HR 0.76, 95% CI: 0.49 to 1.18, P=0.22) and overall survival (32/87; 36.8% HT vs. 84/179; 46.9% ST, HR 0.81, 95% CI: 0.49 to 1.34, P=0.41) were comparable between the two groups. No statistical differences were observed between the groups regarding major amputation (19/87; 21.8% HT vs. 15/179; 8.4% ST, HR 0.85, 95% CI: 0.33 to 2.23, P=0.74) or reintervention during follow-up (45/87; 51.7% HT vs. 65/179; 36.3% ST, HR 0.92, 95% CI: 0.56 to 1.51, P=0.73).

CONCLUSIONS

Hybrid and open surgical treatments showed comparable results in our cohort, even though significantly more patients undergoing HT presented with stent and bypass occlusions rather than de-novo lesions.

Use of Secondary Iliac Branch Devices after Previous Endovascular Abdominal and Thoraco-Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

OBJECTIVE

To assess the safety and effectiveness of iliac branch devices (IBDs), as secondary procedure, for the treatment of type Ib endoleak or evolution of iliac artery disease after prior endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) for thoraco-abdominal (TAAAs) or abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs).

METHODS

A multicentre observational study of three European centres. The study included 75 patients (age 71 ± 9 years, 96% men) with previous EVAR (n = 64, 85%) or fenestrated or branched (FB) EVAR (n = 11, 15%). Overall, 88 IBDs were implanted to treat aneurysmal iliac artery evolution in 40 (53%) and type Ib endoleak in 35 (47%) cases, respectively. Thirteen (17%) patients received bilateral IBDs. Internal iliac artery (IIA) catheterisation was done through a transaxillary access (n = 82, 93%) or up and over (n = 6, 7%) technique. The primary endpoint was technical success. Secondary endpoints were 30 day major adverse event, early and long term freedom from re-intervention and target vessel instability.

RESULTS

All procedures were technically successful (100%). During hospitalisation, there were four (5%) major adverse events and three (4%) early re-interventions, but no death, stroke, or damage to previous endografts. The median follow up was 47 (interquartile range 42) months, and the five year survival rate was 78 ± 6% with no aortic related death. Cox's regression analysis showed pre-operative renal function impairment (hazard ratio [HR] 3.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1 - 10.1; p = .033), and primary TAAA repair (HR 6.1; 95% CI 1.6-22.3; p = .006) as independent factors for long term mortality. Freedom from re-interventions was 85 ± 4% at five years with 11 (12%) cases (five endoleaks, four IBD thromboses, two stenoses). IIA instability was reported in three (3%) limbs and freedom from IIA instability was 95 ± 3% after 60 months.

CONCLUSION

Secondary IBD after EVAR is a safe and effective procedure with high technical success and low complication rates. The technique of choice to revascularise the IIA seems not to affect early and follow up results. Long term durability of IBD repair is acceptable with low rates of IIA re-intervention.

Practice of neuromonitoring in open and endovascular thoracoabdominal aortic repair-an international expert-based modified Delphi consensus study

OBJECTIVES

Spinal cord injury is detrimental for patients undergoing open or endovascular thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair. The aim of this survey and of the modified Delphi consensus was to gather information on current practices and standards in neuroprotection in patients undergoing open and endovascular TAAA.

METHODS

The Aortic Association conducted an international online survey on neuromonitoring in open and endovascular TAAA repair. In a first round an expert panel put together a survey on different aspects of neuromonitoring. Based on the answers from the first round of the survey, 18 Delphi consensus questions were formulated.

RESULTS

A total of 56 physicians completed the survey. Of these, 45 perform open and endovascular TAAA repair, 3 do open TAAA repair and 8 do endovascular TAAA repair. At least 1 neuromonitoring or protection modality is utilized during open TAAA surgery. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage was used in 97.9%, near infrared spectroscopy in 70.8% and motor evoked potentials or somatosensory evoked potentials in 60.4%. Three of 53 centres do not utilize any form of neuromonitoring or protection during endovascular TAAA repair: 92.5% use CSF drainage; 35.8%, cerebral or paravertebral near infrared spectroscopy; and 24.5% motor evoked potentials or somatosensory evoked potentials. The utilization of CSF drainage and neuromonitoring varies depending on the extent of the TAAA repair.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this survey and of the Delphi consensus show that there is broad consensus on the importance of protecting the spinal cord to avoid spinal cord injury in patients undergoing open TAAA repair. Those measures are less frequently utilized in patients undergoing endovascular TAAA repair but should be considered, especially in patients who require extensive coverage of the thoracoabdominal aorta.

Transaxillary Branch-to-Branch-to-Branch Carotid Catheterization Technique for Triple-Branch Arch Repair

PURPOSE

To describe the transaxillary branch-to-branch-to-branch carotid catheterization technique (tranaxillary 3BRA-CCE IT) for cannulation of all supra-aortic vessels using only 1 femoral and 1 axillary access during triple-branch arch repair.

TECHNIQUE

After deployment of the triple-branch arch device, catheterization and bridging of the innominate artery (IA) should be performed through a right axillary access (cutdown or percutaneous). Then, the retrograde left subclavian (LSA) branch should be catheterized (if not preloaded) from a percutaneous femoral access, and a 12×90Fr sheath should be advanced to the outside of the endograft. Subsequently, catheterization of the left common carotid artery (LCCA) antegrade branch should be performed, followed by snaring of a wire in the ascending aorta which was inserted through the axillary access, creating a branch-to-branch-to-branch through-and-through guidewire. Over the axillary access, a 12×45Fr sheath should be inserted into the IA branch and looped in the ascending aorta using a push-and-pull technique so that it faces the LCCA branch, allowing for stable catheterization of the LCCA. The retrograde LSA branch should then be bridged following the standard fashion.

CONCLUSIONS

This series of 5 patients demonstrates that triple-branch arch repair can be performed with the transaxillary 3BRA-CCE IT, allowing catheterization of the supra-aortic vessels without manipulation of the carotid arteries.

CLINICAL IMPACT

The transaxillary 3BRA-CCE IT allows catheterization and bridging of all supra-aortic vessels in triple-branch arch repair through only 2 vascular access points, the femoral artery and the right axillary artery. This technique avoids carotid surgical cutdown and manipulation during these procedures, reducing the risk of access site complications, including bleeding and reintervention, reintubation, cranial nerve lesions, increased operating time, and so on, and has the potential to change the current vascular access standard used during triple-branch arch repair.

Acute Kidney Injury Following Revascularization in Patients With Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia and Non-Dialysis-Dependent Chronic Kidney Disease: Insights From the NSQIP Database at 30-Day Follow-Up

BACKGROUND

Patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at risk of developing renal injury following revascularization. We aimed to compare the risk of adverse renal events following endovascular revascularization (ER) or open surgery (OS) in patients with CLTI and CKD.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) databases (2011-2017) was performed including patients with CLTI and non-dialysis-dependent CKD, comparing ER to OS. The primary outcome was a composite of postprocedural kidney injury or failure within 30 days. Thirty-day mortality, major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), amputation, readmission or target lesion revascularization (TLR) were compared using multivariate logistic regression and propensity-score matched analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 5009 patients were included (ER: 2361; OS: 3409). The risk for the composite primary outcome was comparable between groups (odds ratio [OR]: 0.78, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.53-1.17) as for kidney injury (n=54, OR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.39-1.19) or failure (n=55, OR: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.39-1.19). In the adjusted regression, a significant benefit was observed with ER for the primary outcome (OR: 0.60, p=0.018) and renal failure (OR: 0.50, p=0.025), but not for renal injury (OR: 0.76, p=0.34). Lower rates of MACCE, TLR, and readmissions were observed after ER. Thirty-day mortality and major amputation rates did not differ. In the propensity score analysis, revascularization strategy was not associated with renal injury or failure.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort, the incidence of renal events within 30 days of revascularization in CLTI was low and comparable between ER and OR.

CLINICAL IMPACT

In a cohort of 5009 patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia and non-end-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD), postprocedural kidney injury or failure within 30 days was comparable between patients submitted to open or endovascular revascularization (ER). Lower rates of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events, target lesion revascularization, and readmissions were observed after endovascular revascularization. Based on these findings, ER should not be avoided due to fear of worsening renal function in CKD patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia. In fact, these patients benefit more from ER regarding cardiovascular outcomes with no increased risk of kidney injury.

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.

Intravascular Lithotripsy and Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty for Severely Calcified Common Femoral Artery Atherosclerotic Disease

OBJECTIVES

Intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) followed by drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty might be a valuable alternative to surgery for calcified common femoral artery (CFA) atherosclerotic disease. Nonetheless, the 12 months performance of this treatment strategy remains unknown. This study reports on the 12 months outcomes of IVL with adjunctive DCB angioplasty for calcified CFA lesions.

METHODS

This is a retrospective single-center, single-arm study. Consecutive patients treated by IVL and DCB for calcified CFA disease between February 2017 and September 2020 were evaluated. The primary measure outcome of this analysis was primary patency. Procedural technical success (<30% stenosis), freedom from target lesion revascularization (TLR), secondary patency, and overall mortality were additionally analyzed.

RESULTS

Thirty-three (n=33) patients were included in this study. The majority presented with lifestyle limiting claudication (n=20, 61%), 52% (n=17) of the patients had chronic kidney disease (CKD) and 33% (n=11) had diabetes. The procedural technical success was 97% (n=32). A flow-limiting dissection post IVL was observed in 2 patients (6%) and a peripheral embolization in a single patient (3%), while the bail-out stenting rate amounted to 12% (n=4). No perforation was observed. The median length of hospital stay was 2 days (interquartile range 2-3). At 12 months, the primary patency was 72%. The freedom from TLR and the secondary patency rates were 94% and 88%, respectively. The 12-month survival amounted to 100% and 75% (n=25) of the patients were asymptomatic or presented with mild claudication. The presence of chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) (hazard ratio [HR], 0.92; confidence interval (CI); 0.18-4.8, p=0.7) or CKD (HR, 1.30; 95% CI, 0.29-5.8; p=0.72), as well as the use of a 7 mm IVL catheter (HR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.13-2.63; p=0.49) or of high-dose DCB (HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.13-3.53; p=0.65) did not influence the primary patency.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, the combination of IVL and DCB angioplasty for calcified CFA disease was associated with low risk for periprocedural complications, acceptable 12 months clinical outcomes, and low rates of reinterventions.

CLINICAL IMPACT

Intravascular lithotripsy in combination with DCB angioplasty can be an alternative to surgery in highly selected patients with CFA atherosclerotic disease. In this Cohort the combination therapy lead to acceptable clinical results and low reintervention rates at 12 months.

Endovascular Preservation of Segmental Arteries During Treatment of Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm with Fenestrated/Branched Stent-Grafts: Feasibility and outcome

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate technical success, feasibility, and outcomes of endovascular preservation of segmental arteries (SAs) during fenestrated /branched endovascular aortic repair (F/B-EVAR).

METHODS

A multicenter, retrospective study was conducted on consecutive patients treated with F/B-EVAR and a branch or fenestration for SA preservation. Eleven patients (median age 57, range 45-73; 7 men) were included.

RESULTS

Twelve SAs were preserved. Stent-grafts were custom-made with fenestrations, branches, or a combination of both in 1, 2, and 5 patients. A t-branch was used in 2 patients and physician-modified thoracic stent-graft with a branch was used in 1 patient. Eight branches and 4 fenestrations were used for the preservation of 12 SAs. Four fenestrations and 1 branch for SAs were not bridged and were left for the perfusion of the corresponding SAs. Technical success was achieved in 10/11 (91%) patients. No early mortality occurred. Early morbidities included renal insufficiency without dialysis in 1 patient and partially delayed paraplegia in 1 patient. Pre-discharge computed tomography angiography (CTA) showed patency of all SAs. No early aortic-related re-interventions were required. The median follow-up was 30 (range 10-88) months. Late death occurred in 1 patient. Two SAs occluded in 1 patient with two un-stented fenestrations at 1-year follow-up CTA. This patient did not develop spinal cord ischemia (SCI). Other SAs remained patent during follow-up. One patient with type IIIc endoleak was treated by relining of bridging stents.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular preservation of SAs with F/B-EVAR for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm is feasible and safe in selected patients and may add to preventive measures for SCI.

Editor's Choice - Focused Update on Patients Treated with the Nellix EndoVascular Aneurysm Sealing (EVAS) System from the European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Clinical Practice Guidelines

OBJECTIVE

After alerts on EndoVascular Aneurysm Seal (EVAS) failure were raised, the European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Clinical Practice Guidelines Writing Committee (WC) initiated a task force with the aim to provide guidance on surveillance and management of patients with implanted EVAS devices.

METHODS

Based on a scoping review of risk for late serious aortic-related adverse events in patients treated with EVAS for AAA, the ESVS AAA Guidelines WC agreed on recommendations graded according to the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) grading system.

RESULTS

EVAS has a very high incidence of late endograft migration resulting in proximal type 1 endoleak with risk of rupture, requiring open conversion with device explantation. The reported mortality rate for elective explantation varies between 0% and 14%, while acute conversion for rupture has a very dismal prognosis with a 67 - 75% mortality rate.

CONCLUSION

It is recommended that all patients in whom a Nellix device has been implanted should be identified, properly informed, and enrolled in enhanced surveillance. If device failure is detected, early elective device explantation should be considered in surgically fit patients.

Intravascular Lithotripsy and Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty for Severely Calcified Femoropopliteal Arterial Disease

INTRODUCTION

The combination of intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) and drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty for calcified peripheral lesions is associated with promising short-term results. However, data regarding the 12 months performance of this treatment option is missing. This study reports on the outcomes of IVL and DCB angioplasty for calcified femoropopliteal disease.

METHODS

Patients treated with IVL and DCB for calcified femoropopliteal lesions between February 2017 and September 2020 were included into this study. The primary outcome measure of this analysis was primary patency. Secondary patency, freedom from target lesion revascularization (TLR) and overall mortality were additionally analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifty-five (n = 55) patients and 71 lesions were analyzed. Most patients presented with long-term limb-threatening ischemia (n = 31, 56%), 47% (n = 26) were diabetics, and 66% (n = 36) had long-term kidney disease. The median lesion length was 77 mm (interquartile range: 45-136), and 20% (n = 14) of the lesions were chronic total occlusions (CTOs). Eccentric calcification was found in 23% of the vessels (n = 16), and circumferential calcium (peripheral arterial calcium scoring system [PACSS] Class 3 and 4) was present in 78% (n = 55) of the treated lesions.The technical success after IVL amounted to 87% (n = 62) and the procedural success to 97% (n = 69). A flow-limiting dissection was observed in 2 cases (3%). Both the rates of target lesion perforation and distal embolization were 1% (n = 1). A bail-out scaffold was deployed in 5 lesions (7%). At 12 months the Kaplan-Meier estimate of primary patency was 81%, the freedom from TLR was 92% and the secondary patency 98%. The overall survival amounted to 89%, while the freedom from major amputation to 98%. The presence of eccentric disease, CTOs, or PACSS Class 4 did not increase the risk for loss of patency or TLR.

CONCLUSIONS

In this challenging cohort of patients, the use of IVL and DCB for calcified femoropopliteal lesions was associated with promising 12 months outcomes and an excellent safety profile.