Signs of impending rupture in abdominal aortic and iliac artery aneurysms by computed tomography: Outcomes in 41 patients.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of signs of impending rupture (SIR) in asymptomatic patients with abdominal aortic and iliac artery aneurysms, and to evaluate whether these signs were associated with rupture in asymptomatic patients. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of patients with abdominal aortic and iliac artery aneurysms identified on computed tomography (CT) over a 10-year period in a single center. The CT scans were reviewed by two reviewers, and patients with SIR were assigned to one of three groups: (1) early symptomatic (ES), (2) late symptomatic (LS), and (3) always asymptomatic (AA). The four main SIR described in the literature were investigated: 1) crescent sign, 2) focal wall discontinuity of circumferential calcifications, 3) aortic bulges or blebs, and 4) aortic draping. RESULTS: From a total of 759 aortic and iliac aneurysm reports on 2226 CT scans, we identified 41 patients with at least one SIR, and a prevalence of 4.14% in asymptomatic patients. Focal wall discontinuity of circumferential calcifications was the most common sign, and it was present in 46.3% of these patients (19/41); among these, 26 were repaired (ES: 9, LS: 2, AA: 15). Eleven asymptomatic patients underwent follow-up CT. The aneurysm increased in size in 6 of the 11 (54.5%) patients, and three ruptured (all with discontinuity of calcifications), one of which had no increase in diameter. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of focal wall discontinuity of circumferential calcifications was the most common SIR. There was a prevalence of all signs in less than 5% of asymptomatic patients. In unrepaired patients, the signs could be observed on follow-up CT scans with an increase in aneurysm size, indicating that the presence of SIR alone in the absence of other clinical factors or aneurysm characteristics is an insufficient indication for surgery.

Prediction model of isolated iliac and abdominal aneurysms.

OBJECTIVES: We analyse the cardiovascular risk factors in patients undergoing screening for Isolated Iliac Aneurysm (IIA) and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) and propose a logistic regression model to indicate patients at risk of IIA and/or AAA. METHODS: A screening programme was carried out to identify the presence of aneurysm based on Duplex scan examination. Cardiovascular risk factors information was collected from each subject. A descriptive analysis for the incidence of IIA and AAA stratified by age and sex was carried out to evaluate factors incidence. A logistic regression model was developed to predict the probability of developing an aneurysm based on the observed risk factor levels. A threshold probability of aneurysm risk for a datum patient was also identified to effectively direct screening protocols to patients most at risk. RESULTS: A cohort of 10 842 patients was evaluated: 1.52% affected by IIA, 2.69% by AAA and 3.90% by at least one. Risk factors analysis showed that: IIA was correlated with cardiological status, diabetes, cardiovascular disease family history, and dyslipidaemia; AAA was correlated with cardiological status, body mass index, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia; diabetes and dyslipidaemia were the most relevant factors with at least one aneurysm. The prediction tool based on the logistic regression and the threshold probability predict the presence of IIA and AAA in 69.7% and 83.8% of cases, under k-fold cross-validation. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed regression model can represent a valid aid to predict IIA and AAA presence and to select patients to be screened.

Signs of impending rupture in abdominal aortic and iliac artery aneurysms by computed tomography: Outcomes in 41 patients

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of signs of impending rupture (SIR) in asymptomatic patients with abdominal aortic and iliac artery aneurysms, and to evaluate whether these signs were associated with rupture in asymptomatic patients. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of patients with abdominal aortic and iliac artery aneurysms identified on computed tomography (CT) over a 10-year period in a single center. The CT scans were reviewed by two reviewers, and patients with SIR were assigned to one of three groups: (1) early symptomatic (ES), (2) late symptomatic (LS), and (3) always asymptomatic (AA). The four main SIR described in the literature were investigated: 1) crescent sign, 2) focal wall discontinuity of circumferential calcifications, 3) aortic bulges or blebs, and 4) aortic draping. RESULTS: From a total of 759 aortic and iliac aneurysm reports on 2226 CT scans, we identified 41 patients with at least one SIR, and a prevalence of 4.14% in asymptomatic patients. Focal wall discontinuity of circumferential calcifications was the most common sign, and it was present in 46.3% of these patients (19/41); among these, 26 were repaired (ES: 9, LS: 2, AA: 15). Eleven asymptomatic patients underwent follow-up CT. The aneurysm increased in size in 6 of the 11 (54.5%) patients, and three ruptured (all with discontinuity of calcifications), one of which had no increase in diameter. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of focal wall discontinuity of circumferential calcifications was the most common SIR. There was a prevalence of all signs in less than 5% of asymptomatic patients. In unrepaired patients, the signs could be observed on follow-up CT scans with an increase in aneurysm size, indicating that the presence of SIR alone in the absence of other clinical factors or aneurysm characteristics is an insufficient indication for surgery.

Editor's Choice - Nationwide Analysis of Patients Undergoing Iliac Artery Aneurysm Repair in the Netherlands.

OBJECTIVE: The new 2019 guideline of the European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) recommends consideration for elective iliac artery aneurysm (eIAA) repair when the iliac diameter exceeds 3.5 cm, as opposed to 3.0 cm previously. The current study assessed diameters at time of eIAA repair and ruptured IAA (rIAA) repair and compared clinical outcomes after open surgical repair (OSR) and endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). METHODS: This retrospective observational study used the nationwide Dutch Surgical Aneurysm Audit (DSAA) registry that includes all patients who undergo aorto-iliac aneurysm repair in the Netherlands. All patients who underwent primary IAA repair between 1 January 2014 and 1 January 2018 were included. Diameters at time of eIAA and rIAA repair were compared in a descriptive fashion. The anatomical location of the IAA was not registered in the registry. Patient characteristics and outcomes of OSR and EVAR were compared with appropriate statistical tests. RESULTS: The DSAA registry comprised 974 patients who underwent IAA repair. A total of 851 patients were included after exclusion of patients undergoing revision surgery and patients with missing essential variables. eIAA repair was carried out in 713 patients, rIAA repair in 102, and symptomatic IAA repair in 36. OSR was performed in 205, EVAR in 618, and hybrid repairs and conversions in 28. The median maximum IAA diameter at the time of eIAA and rIAA repair was 43 (IQR 38-50) mm and 68 (IQR 58-85) mm, respectively. Mortality was 1.3% (95% CI 0.7-2.4) after eIAA repair and 25.5% (95% CI 18.0-34.7) after rIAA repair. Mortality was not significantly different between the OSR and EVAR subgroups. Elective OSR was associated with significantly more complications than EVAR (intra-operative: 9.8% vs. 3.6%, post-operative: 34.0% vs. 13.8%, respectively). CONCLUSION: In the Netherlands, most eIAA repairs are performed at diameters larger than recommended by the ESVS guideline. These findings appear to support the recent increase in the threshold diameter for eIAA repair.

Incidence and management of iliac artery aneurysms associated with endovascular treatment of juxtarenal and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.

BACKGROUND: This study reports the clinical impact of iliac artery aneurysms (IAAs) in a population of patients with juxtarenal and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms being treated with fenestrated or branched aortic endografts. METHODS: Data from 364 patients with IAA (33%) were extracted from the 1118 patients treated for juxtarenal or thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms with a fenestrated or branched aortic endograft in a physician-sponsored investigational device exemption trial (2001-2016). IAAs were defined as ≥21 mm in diameter, as measured by an imaging core laboratory. Outcomes were assessed by univariate and multivariable analysis. RESULTS: IAAs were unilateral in 219 (60%) and bilateral in 145 (40%) of the 364 patients. Treatment was iliac leg endoprosthesis without coverage of the hypogastric artery (seal distal to the IAA in the common iliac artery), placement of a hypogastric branched endograft in 105 (21%), and hypogastric artery coverage with extension into the external iliac artery in 103 (20%); 67 (13%) were untreated. Procedure duration was longer for those with IAA (5.3 ± 1.79 hours vs 4.6 ± 1.74 hours; P < .001), although hospital stay was not. There was no difference in aneurysm-related mortality and all-cause mortality for patients with unilateral and bilateral IAAs compared with those without an IAA. Treatment of patients with a hypogastric branched endograft had similar all-cause mortality compared with treatment of patients without a hypogastric branched endograft but also with an IAA. Reintervention rates were significantly higher in those with bilateral IAAs compared with no IAA (hazard ratio, 1.886; P < .001). Spinal cord ischemia trended higher in patients with bilateral IAA. CONCLUSIONS: IAA management at the time of fenestrated or branched endovascular aneurysm repair increases procedure time without increasing hospitalization. The reintervention rate and spinal cord ischemia rate are higher in patients with bilateral IAA compared with those with no IAA.

Prevalence of abdominal aortic aneurysm and associated lower extremity artery aneurysm in men hospitalized for suspected or known cardiopulmonary disease.

BACKGROUND: AAA is a disease affecting predominantly male patients ≥65 years and its dreaded complications such as rupture led to population-based screening programs as preventive measure. Nonetheless, the supposed prevalence may have been overestimated, so that targeted screening of high risk populations may be more effective. This study was performed to evaluate the prevalence of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) of an inpatient high-risk cohort and to estimate the co-prevalence of lower extremity arterial aneurysms. METHODS: Participants: 566 male inpatients, ≥ 65 years of age, hospitalized for suspected or known cardiopulmonary disease. Primary and secondary outcome measures: Maximal infrarenal aortic diameters using abdominal ultrasound (leading edge to leading edge method). Upon detection of an AAA (diameter ≥ 30 mm), the lower extremity arteries were examined with regard to associated aneurysms. RESULTS: In 40 of 566 patients (7.1%) AAAs were detectable. Fourteen patients (2.5%) had a first diagnosis of AAA, none of which was large (> 55 mm), the remaining 26 patients were either already diagnosed (14 patients, 2.5%) or previously repaired (12 patients, 2.1%). The three most common main diagnoses at discharge were acute coronary syndrome (43.3%), congestive heart failure (32.2%), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (12%). The cohort showed a distinct cardiovascular risk profile comprising arterial hypertension (82.9%), diabetes mellitus (44.4%), and a history of smoking (57.6%). In multivariate analysis, three-vessel coronary artery disease (Odds ratio (OR): 4.5, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.3-8.9, p <  0.0001) and history of smoking (OR: 3.7, CI: 1.6-8.6, p <  0.01) were positively associated with AAA, while diabetes mellitus (OR: 0.5, CI: 0.2-0.9, p = 0.0295) showed a negative association with AAA. Among the subjects with AAA, we found two large iliac and two large popliteal aneurysms. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound screening in male inpatients, hospitalized for suspected or known cardiopulmonary disease, revealed a high AAA prevalence in comparison to the present epidemiological screening programs. There was a moderate proportion of newly-screen detected AAA and additional screening of the lower extremity arteries yielded some associated aneurysms with indication for possible intervention.

Infrarenal versus Suprarenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: Comparison of Associated Aneurysms and Renal Artery Stenosis.

BACKGROUND: The aim of our study is to assess the prevalence of concomitant arterial abnormalities (true aneurysms of iliac, common femoral, renal, visceral arteries and stenoses of iliac and renal arteries) in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm, and to evaluate whether the type of the aneurysm (suprarenal versus solely infrarenal) is associated with this prevalence. METHODS: In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we assessed computed tomography angiography scans of 933 patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm, including thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms type II-IV, with no history of abdominal aortic surgery. We compared 2 groups of patients: group 1 (n = 859) with solely infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm and group 2 (n = 74) with the suprarenal aneurysm component. Patients with history of aortic dissection or thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms type I and V were excluded from the study. All computed tomography angiography scans were visually assessed by 2 independent experienced physicians. RESULTS: Study group comprised 933 patients with the median age of 73.0 years, 83.8% of whom were male. We observed higher prevalence of common iliac artery aneurysms (44.6% vs. 30.6%, P = 0.013), internal iliac artery aneurysms (28.4% vs. 18.0%, P = 0.03), common femoral artery aneurysms (13.5% vs. 4.4%, P < 0.001), visceral artery aneurysms (5.4% vs. 1.2%, P = 0.019), renal artery stenosis (20.3% vs. 5.2%, P < 0.001), renal atrophy (6.7% vs. 1.1%, P = 0.004), and severe chronic kidney disease (14.1% vs. 1.8%, P < 0.001) in group 2 compared to group 1. There were no significant differences in the prevalence of iliac arterial stenoses between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Among patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm, concomitant aneurysms and renal artery stenosis are more common in patients with suprarenal component when compared to those with solely infrarenal presentation.

A Long-Time Follow-Up Study of a Single-Center Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (Evar) Endoleak Outcomes.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence, risk factors, and outcome of endoleaks related to endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) procedure at a single center with up to 10 years' surveillance. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients treated with EVAR for an abdominal aorta or iliac aneurysm in a 10-year period at a single cardiovascular center in Denmark were included. Data were collected from a national database and patient journals. Follow-up computed tomography angiography and plain abdominal X-ray reports were reviewed. RESULTS: A total of 421 patients were included. There were 125 endoleaks observed in 117 (27.8%) patients after a median 95 days (interquartile range: 90-106 days). There were 16 type I, 107 type II, 1 type III, and 1 type V endoleaks. A total of 33 (7.8%) patients had at least 1 reintervention. Patients with type II endoleaks had significantly fewer active smokers and lower plasma creatinine at baseline. They also more often had one, or both, internal iliac arteries embolized as well as an identified endoleak at the procedural completion angiogram. Non-type II endoleaks were associated with internal iliac artery embolization. There was no association between the occurrence of endoleaks and increased mortality. CONCLUSION: Type II endoleaks are common after EVAR, yet few lead to reintervention. Absence of smoking, low plasma creatinine, embolized iliac arteries, and endoleak on completion angiogram were associated with type II endoleaks, whereas only embolized iliac arteries were associated with non-type II endoleaks. Overall, endoleaks are not associated with increased mortality.

Prevalence of Synchronous and Metachronous Aneurysms in Women With Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm.

BACKGROUND: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is three to five times more common among men compared with women, yet up to 38% of all aneurysm related deaths affect women. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of synchronous or metachronous aneurysms among women with AAA, as diagnosis and treatment could improve survival. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective study of prospectively registered patients. All women operated on, or under surveillance for, AAA were identified at two Swedish hospitals. Aneurysms in different locations were identified using available imaging studies. Aneurysms were defined according to location: thoracic ascending aorta ≥42 mm, descending ≥33 mm, abdominal aorta ≥30 mm, common iliac artery ≥20 mm or 50% wider than the contralateral artery, common femoral artery ≥12 mm, popliteal artery ≥10 mm. RESULTS: A total of 339 women with an AAA were included. The median follow up was 2.8 (range 0-15.7) years. Thirty-one per cent had an aneurysm in the thoracic aorta (67 of 217 investigated, 84% were located in the descending aorta), 13 (19%) underwent repair. Twelve per cent had a common iliac artery aneurysm (24/259, 76% were investigated). Common femoral artery aneurysms were identified in 4.3% (8/184, 54% investigated). Popliteal artery aneurysms were identified in 4.0% (6/149, 44% investigated). The prevalence of infrainguinal aneurysms was higher among patients with synchronous iliac aneurysms (40% vs. 1.6%, OR 42, 95% CI 6.4-279, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Thoracic aortic aneurysms are common among women with AAA, most commonly affecting the descending aorta, and detection frequently results in repair. Popliteal and femoral aneurysms are not rare among women with AAA, and even common if there is a synchronous iliac aneurysm.

Morphology-Related Limitations of Endovascular Aneurysm Repair Applicability in the Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in West-Central Poland.

BACKGROUND: Morphology is one of the most important factors influencing the long-term durability of endovascular repair of an infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). The knowledge of morphological characteristics of AAA that may differ in various populations seems to be important for further development of a technology of endovascular repair as well as for planning of treatment strategies. To analyze the current applicability of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) in patients with an infrarenal AAA with an indication for elective treatment in west-central Poland. METHODS: Computed tomography angiograms of 100 consecutive patients with infrarenal AAA deemed to require treatment were analyzed with an OsiriX DICOM viewer in 3D-multiplanar reconstruction mode. Proximal neck diameter, length, angulation, shape, the presence of thrombus and calcification, distal neck diameter, and morphology of the iliac arteries were determined. Three sets of morphological criteria were established. The optimal criteria consisted of a nonconical proximal neck without moderate or severe calcification or thrombus, with a diameter of 18-28 mm, length of ≥15 mm, and ß angulation of <60%; a distal neck with a diameter of ≥20 mm; a landing zone in the common iliac arteries (CIAs) with a length of ≥10 mm and diameter of ≤20 mm; and external iliac arteries with diameters of ≥7 mm. The suboptimal criteria included proximal neck diameters of 18-32 mm, neck lengths ≥10 mm, infrarenal neck angulations of up to 75°, and CIA diameters of up to 25 mm. Finally, the extended suboptimal criteria included proximal neck diameters of 16-34 mm and infrarenal neck angulations ≤90°, without limits in the maximal diameter of the CIAs. RESULTS: The median maximum aneurysm diameter was 61 mm. The optimal, suboptimal, and extended suboptimal criteria were met by 23%, 32%, and 53% of patients, respectively. The most common deviations were wide, conical, and angulated proximal necks and aneurysmal iliac arteries. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of patients with AAA deemed to be candidates for elective repair do not meet the most favorable criteria for EVAR. Availability of better endovascular solutions for conical, angulated, and wide necks and aneurysmal iliac arteries would likely expand EVAR applicability. Open repair remains a valid option.

Pelvic artery aneurysm screening provides value in patients with thoracic aortic aneurysms.

Approximately » of patients with thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs) have concomitant abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), thereby justifying the addition of an abdominal CT scan to a chest CT scan in patients with a newly diagnosed or suspected TAA. However, the prevalence of pelvic artery aneurysms (PAAs) in these patients is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of PAAs in patients with TAAs and to assess what patient specific factors were associated with PAAs, thereby providing insight into the usefulness of pelvic imaging in TAA patients. Consecutive non-operated patients seen in Cardiac Surgery clinic between 2008 and 2013 with a TAA and a CT scan of the chest/abdomen/pelvis were included. Scans of 371 patients were evaluated for PAAs using threshold diameters of 20 and 15 mm for common iliac artery aneurysms (CIAs) and internal iliac artery aneurysms (IIAs), respectively, on 3D analysis. The prevalence of PAAs was determined and multiple logistic regression was used to identify associated risk factors. 41 of 371 (11.1%) patients with a TAA had at least one PAA. Factors showing positive associations with PAAs included increased age (p = 0.0004), male gender (p = 0.0007), descending TAA location (p = 0.0024) and presence of an AAA (p < 0.0001). The results of our study suggest that the addition of pelvic imaging for PAA screening in patients undergoing an initial CT scan of the chest and abdomen for a TAA is valuable, particularly in patients with the following demographics: age ≥65, male gender, descending TAA location, and/or known AAA.

Few internal iliac artery aneurysms rupture under 4 cm.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the diameter of internal iliac artery (IIA) aneurysms (IIAAs) at the time of rupture to evaluate whether the current threshold diameter for elective repair of 3 cm is reasonable. The prevalence of concomitant aneurysms and results of surgical treatment were also investigated. METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of patients with ruptured IIAA from seven countries. The patients were collected from vascular registries and patient records of 28 vascular centers. Computed tomography images taken at the time of rupture were analyzed, and maximal diameters of the ruptured IIA and other aortoiliac arteries were measured. Data on the type of surgical treatment, mortality at 30 days, and follow-up were collected. RESULTS: Sixty-three patients (55 men and 8 women) were identified, operated on from 2002 to 2015. The patients were a mean age of 76.6 years (standard deviation, 9.0; range 48-93 years). A concomitant common iliac artery aneurysm was present in 65.0%, 41.7% had a concomitant abdominal aortic aneurysm, and 36.7% had both. IIAA was isolated in 30.0%. The mean maximal diameter of the ruptured artery was 68.4 mm (standard deviation, 20.5 mm; median, 67.0 mm; range, 25-116 mm). One rupture occurred at <3 cm and four at <4 cm (6.3% of all ruptures). All patients were treated, 73.0% by open repair and 27.0% by endovascular repair. The 30-day mortality was 12.7%. Median follow-up was 18.3 months (interquartile range, 2.0-48.3 months). The 1-year Kaplan-Meier estimate for survival was 74.5% (standard error, 5.7%). CONCLUSIONS: IIAA is an uncommon condition and mostly coexists with other aortoiliac aneurysms. Follow-up until a diameter of 4 cm seems justified, at least in elderly men, although lack of surveillance data precludes firm conclusions. The mortality was low compared with previously published figures and lower than mortality in patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Multiple giant coronary artery aneurysms: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Coronary artery aneurysm is defined as a localized area of dilatation exceeding the diameter of the adjacent normal arterial segment by 50%. Giant aneurysms are those aneurysms that measure greater than 2cm in diameter. There have been many pathologic diseases, including atherosclerosis, that have been implicated in the development of coronary artery aneurysms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We report a case of a 61-year-old African American male with multiple comorbidities including hypertension, congestive heart failure, abdominal aortic aneurysm, and bilateral iliac aneurysms, who was admitted to our hospital with exacerbation of congestive heart failure. Less than 2weeks after admission, the patient suffered cardiac arrest while receiving dialysis and was unresponsive to resuscitative measures. FINDINGS: Autopsy was performed and revealed significant cardiomyopathy and giant coronary artery aneurysms involving the left anterior descending, left circumflex, and right coronary arteries. Both ventricles showed hypertrophy and dilation with multifocal areas of chronic myocardial scarring. CONCLUSIONS: Coronary artery aneurysms and giant coronary artery aneurysms are an uncommon. As there are few reported cases in the literature, the cause, detection, and treatment of this disease are still largely unknown.

The effect of endovascular treatment on isolated iliac artery aneurysm treatment and mortality.

OBJECTIVE: Isolated iliac artery aneurysms are rare, but potentially fatal. The effect of recent trends in the use of endovascular iliac aneurysm repair (EVIR) on isolated iliac artery aneurysm-associated mortality is unknown. METHODS: We identified all patients with a primary diagnosis of iliac artery aneurysm in the National Inpatient Sample from 1988 to 2011. We examined trends in management (open vs EVIR, elective and urgent) and overall isolated iliac artery aneurysm-related deaths (with or without repair). We compared in-hospital mortality and complications for the subgroup of patients undergoing elective open and EVIR from 2000 to 2011. RESULTS: We identified 33,161 patients undergoing isolated iliac artery aneurysm repair from 1988 to 2011, of which there were 9016 EVIR and 4933 open elective repairs from 2000 to 2011. Total repairs increased after the introduction of EVIR, from 28 to 71 per 10 million United States (U.S.) population (P < .001). EVIR surpassed open repair in 2003. Total isolated iliac artery aneurysm-related deaths, due to rupture or elective repair, decreased after the introduction of EVIR from 4.4 to 2.3 per 10 million U.S. population (P < .001). However, urgent admissions did not decrease during this time period (15 to 15 procedures per 10 million U.S. population; P = .30). Among elective repairs after 2000, EVIR patients were older (72.4 vs 69.4 years; P = .002) and were more likely to have a history of prior myocardial infarction (14.0% vs 11.3%; P < .001) and renal failure (7.2% vs 3.6%; P < .001). Open repair had significantly higher rate of in-hospital mortality (1.8% vs 0.5%; P < .001) and complications (17.9% vs 6.7%; P < .001) and a longer length of stay (6.7 vs 2.3 days; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of isolated iliac artery aneurysms has increased since the introduction of EVIR and is associated with lower perioperative mortality, despite a higher burden of comorbid illness. Decreasing iliac artery aneurysm-attributable in-hospital deaths are likely related primarily to lower elective mortality with EVIR rather than rupture prevention.

The 100-year evolution of the isolated internal iliac artery aneurysm.

BACKGROUND: Isolated internal iliac artery aneurysms (IIIAA) are a rare form of aneurysm. The incidence increases with age, and the prevalence is higher in men. The clinical presentation can vary, and standard treatment protocols are not established. The first case of an IIIAA was described more than 100 years ago. The purpose of the study is to summarize the various clinical presentations and treatment options that have been reported in the literature in the past 100 years. METHODS: Literature about IIIAA was reviewed using the electronic databank PubMed. All case reports and case series were analyzed, and we included our own data with 2 case reports. RESULTS: Over time, IIIAA diagnosis increasingly resulted from asymptomatic incidental findings on radiologic studies. Various clinical presentations included abdominal pain, back pain, rectal bleeding, hydronephrosis with renal failure, hematuria, and free rupture with shock. Rupture has a mortality rate of 53%. IIIAAs were more common on the left (61.8% left, 27.3% right, 10.9% bilateral). Treatments include open surgical repair and endovascular repair using a variety of methods. One article reported a hybrid method using both endovascular and open surgical technique. CONCLUSIONS: Since its first description 100 years ago, we have gained knowledge about the natural history of IIIAA. Multiple treatment options have been described, but long-term outcome needs further investigation.

Family history of aortic disease predicts disease patterns and progression and is a significant influence on management strategies for patients and their relatives.

BACKGROUND: While a positive family history (FH) is a known risk factor for developing an aneurysm, its association with the extent of disease has not been established. We evaluated the influence of a FH of aortic disease with respect to the pattern and distribution of aortic aneurysms in a given patient. METHODS AND RESULTS: From November 1999 to November 2011, 1263 patients were enrolled in physician-sponsored endovascular device trials to treat aortic aneurysms. Of the 555 patients who were alive and returning for follow-up, we obtained 426 (77%) family histories. Three-dimensional imaging studies were used to identify the presence of aneurysms; 36% (155/426) of patients had a FH of aortic aneurysms and 5% (21/155) had isolated intracranial aneurysms. A logistic regression model was used to compare aortic morphology between patients with a positive or negative FH for aneurysms. Patients with a positive FH of aortic aneurysms were younger at their initial aneurysm (63 vs 70 years; P < .0001), more frequently had proximal aortic involvement (root: odds ratio [OR], 5.4; P < .0001; ascending: OR, 2.9; P < .001; thoracic: OR, 2.2; P = .01) with over 50% of FH patients ultimately developing suprarenal aortic involvement (P = .0001) and had a greater incidence of bilateral iliac artery aneurysm (OR, 1.8; P = .03). CONCLUSIONS: FH is an important tool that provides insight into the expected behavior of the untreated aorta and has significant implications for the development of treatment strategies. These findings should be used to guide patient's management with regard to treatment, follow-up paradigms, genetic testing, and screening of other family members.

[Natural history of moderate-degree carotid stenosis in patients with peripheral artery disease]. / Historia natural de la estenosis carotídea de grado moderado en pacientes con enfermedad arterial periférica.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To understand the evolution of moderate asymptomatic carotid stenosis, the factors that influence its progression and the related morbimortality. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective observational study of 133 patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis between 50-69% in one or both carotids between 2002 and 2009. Included patients were subjected to screening for peripheral arterial disease (PAD), aneurysmal disease or carotid bruit. The monitoring was carried out using an annual duplex scan. The rate of progression, the variables related to this, the appearance of neurological events, and global and cardiovascular mortality were evaluated. Descriptive studies, univariate analysis (chi-squared test and Student's t-test), multivariate analysis (logistic regression), and survival curves (Log-Rank test) were carried out. RESULTS: With an average time of monitoring: 30.8 ± 1.7 months, stenosis progression was observed in 33% of the patients, with an average progression time of 31.3 ± 2.7 months. Greater progression was observed in the subgroup of patients with PAD and ischemic heart disease (odds ratio [OR] 2.84, confidence interval [CI] 95% 1.14-7.03). In the multivariate analysis only the PAD was identified as a risk factor for progression (P=.043). The group of patients with progression showed greater rates of neurological events: 15 vs. 1.6% (P=.01), greater global mortality: 15 vs. 3% (P=.04), and greater cardiovascular mortality: 12.1 vs. 1.5% (P=.03). CONCLUSIONS: The progression of asymptomatic carotid stenosis between 50-69% is common in patients subjected to screening, especially in those with a history of ischaemic heart disease and/or PAD. This progression is associated with an increased rate of cardiovascular complications. For this reason, we recommend clinical and echographic follow-up of these patients.

Outcomes of endovascular aneurysm repair with selective internal iliac artery coverage without coil embolization.

OBJECTIVE: Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) that also involve the common iliac artery (CIA) typically is accomplished by endograft limb extension into the external iliac artery (EIA). In order to prevent endoleak, the internal iliac artery (IIA) is usually embolized, or alternatively a branched limb is deployed. However, IIA embolization is associated with longer operative time and increased use of contrast and radiation. It has been our practice not to routinely coil embolize the IIA. The purpose of this study was to present the midterm outcomes of this approach. METHODS: Between April 1997 and June 2010, 137 patients (130 men; mean age, 70.9 years; range, 45-92 years) underwent EVAR of their AAA and had IIA coverage without coil embolization in 112 patients (no embolization [NE] group) and after coil embolization in 25 patients (coil embolization [CE] group). Anatomic indications for coverage of the IIA without coil embolization included presence of adequate sealing in the distal 5 mm of the CIA, or sealing ring at the origin of the CIA, or IIA diameter <5 mm. Preoperative mean AAA size was 60 ± 14 mm, and mean CIA diameter was 38 ± 13 mm. Postoperative computed tomography (CT) scanning was performed at 1, 6, and 12 months, and yearly thereafter. RESULTS: Thirty-day mortality was 0.7% (1 of 137 patients). A patient presented with gluteal skin necrosis (0.7%). The incidence of postoperative buttock claudication was not different between the two groups (NE: 15 of 112 patients; CE: 3 of 25 patients; P = .852). Procedure and fluoroscopy time, contrast use, and hospital stay were significantly reduced in the NE group. Patients were followed up for 33 ± 30 months. During follow-up, 44 patients died (32.1%) and in 3 of them (2.2%), death was AAA-related. There was no difference in cumulative survival between the two groups at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years, respectively. Secondary interventions were performed in 20 of 137 patients (14.5%), including three conversions for proximal endoleak. There was no difference between the two groups in the incidence of secondary interventions (NE: 18 of 112 patients; CE: two of 25 patients; P = .301) and freedom from reintervention at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years, respectively. Ten patients (8.9%) from the NE group presented a type II endoleak during follow-up. Seven of them were associated with the covered IIA; none required reintervention. CONCLUSIONS: Stent graft coverage of the IIA without coil embolization is a safe, simple, and effective maneuver for the treatment of aortoiliac aneurysms, with a low incidence of postoperative complications and reinterventions and acceptable immediate and midterm results.

Treatment of solitary iliac aneurysms: clinical review of 28 cases.

PURPOSE: The clinical characteristics and long-term results of patients with solitary iliac aneurysms (SIAs) were investigated. METHODS: 28 consecutive patients who underwent repair of SIAs between 1985 and 2004 were reviewed retrospectively, and compared with those of 536 patients who underwent elective repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) during the same period. RESULTS: The incidence of SIAs among all aorto-iliac aneurysms was 5.0%. The 28 patients with SIAs were men with a mean age of 69.1 years. There were a collective total of 42 iliac aneurysms in the 28 patients, with 12 patients having multiple aneurysms. Thirty aneurysms involved the common iliac artery, and 12 involved the internal iliac artery. Twenty-two patients had symptoms, although none of the SIAs ruptured. Four patients had coexistent iliac occlusive disease and two patients had femoral occlusive disease. The 5-and 10-year survival rates of the patients with SIAs were 90.5% and 75.4%, whereas those of the patients with AAAs were 76.3% and 54%, respectively (P = 0.089). CONCLUSION: Routine imaging is necessary not only to evaluate the SIAs, but also to detect multiple aneurysms or arterial occlusive disease. Close and long-term followup is mandatory for the early detection of the formation of new aneurysms.

Trends in prevalence of fatal surgical diseases at forensic autopsy.

BACKGROUND: In 1992, there were major changes in Swedish law of the deceased, which had led to a dramatic decrease in autopsy rates. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of fatal or potential fatal surgical diseases within a Swedish forensic autopsy cohort, before and after this change in legislation. METHODS: Deaths referred for forensic autopsy at the Institution of Forensic Medicine, Lund University Hospital, Sweden, between 1970-1982 and 2000-2004, were studied regarding the prevalence of aorto-iliac diseases, acute abdomen and abdominal cancer. RESULTS: The forensic autopsy rates in the population during the two time periods were 14.0% (29 399 patients) and 5.3% (4487 patients), respectively. The total prevalence of surgical diseases has increased significantly from 67.3 (95% confidence interval 64.3-70.2) to 83.4 (74.9-91.8) per 1000 autopsies, respectively. The cause-specific mortality ratios in patients with fatal acute abdomen increased significantly from 16.5 (15.1-18.0) to 39.0 (33.2-44.8) per 1000 autopsies, respectively, and there was almost a three-time increase in patients with fatal gastrointestinal haemorrhage and acute alcohol-related pancreatitis. CONCLUSION: Forensic autopsy data continues to be invaluable, despite changes in legislation in Sweden, for epidemiological studies on fatal or potential fatal surgical diseases.