Lessons learned over 2 decades of fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair

Abstract

Fenestrated-branched endovascular repair has been disseminated worldwide from a technique used to treat high-risk patients to a valid alternative in almost any patient who is anatomically suitable and has complex abdominal and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. As with any new procedure, there is a steep learning curve that goes beyond proficiency with deployment. Ultimately, patient selection, team performance, surgeon's ability to adapt to unexpected events, and the constant evolution of improvements in technical aspects all affect the early outcomes and durability of the repair. This article reviews the importance of the learning curve, evolution of complex endovascular techniques, and factors affecting outcomes of complex endovascular aneurysm repair.