Chronic dissection - indications for treatment with branched and fenestrated stent-grafts

J Cardiovasc Surg (Torino). 2014 Aug;55(4):505-17. Epub 2014 Jun 30.

Abstract

The treatment of chronic aortic dissection is a major challenge for the vascular surgeon. Close imaging follow-up after the acute episode frequently identifies dilation of untreated aortic segments. Aortic dissection often extends to both the supra-aortic trunks and to the visceral aorta. The poor medical condition that often characterizes these patients may preclude extensive open surgical repair. Recent advances in endovascular techniques provide a valid alternative to open surgery. These complex lesions can now be managed using thoracic branched and fenestrated endografts. However, clinical data are scarce and only 3 small series from 3 high-volume aortic centers are currently available. Careful anatomical study on 3D workstations is mandatory to select patients that are candidates for complex endovascular exclusion; a specific focus on the available working space within the true lumen, extension to the arch and/or the visceral/renal arteries, and false lumen perfusion of visceral vessels is required. An excellent understanding of those anatomic details demands high-quality preoperative CTA. Intraoperative advanced imaging applications are a major adjunct in the achievement of technical success.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aortic Aneurysm / diagnosis
  • Aortic Aneurysm / surgery*
  • Aortic Dissection / diagnosis
  • Aortic Dissection / surgery*
  • Aortography / methods
  • Blood Vessel Prosthesis Implantation / adverse effects
  • Blood Vessel Prosthesis Implantation / instrumentation*
  • Blood Vessel Prosthesis*
  • Chronic Disease
  • Endovascular Procedures / adverse effects
  • Endovascular Procedures / instrumentation*
  • Humans
  • Patient Selection
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Prosthesis Design
  • Risk Factors
  • Stents*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Treatment Outcome