Jaw claudication and branch perfusion reduction as rare complications of fenestrated thoracic endovascular aortic repair

J Vasc Surg Cases Innov Tech. 2024 Mar 14;10(3):101484. doi: 10.1016/j.jvscit.2024.101484. eCollection 2024 Jun.

Abstract

We report a rare case of jaw claudication following fenestrated thoracic endovascular aortic repair for a saccular aortic arch aneurysm. The brachiocephalic artery (BCA) was preserved with fenestration and intentionally half covered. Although discharged without any complications 2 weeks after the procedure, the patient subsequently experienced right mandibular fatigue at mealtime and hypotension in the right upper extremity. Angiography revealed a flap-like structure in the BCA orifice, with a 100-mm Hg pressure gradient between the aorta and BCA. Intravascular ultrasound revealed a stenosed BCA with a cord-like structure, which was considered a graft protrusion. Bare metal stenting was performed, which promptly resolved the symptoms.

Keywords: Aortic arch aneurysms; Brachiocephalic artery; Fenestrated thoracic endovascular aortic repair; Graft protrusion; Jaw claudication.

Publication types

  • Case Reports