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.

Anatomical Feasibility of the "Canaud Technique" for Physician-Modified Thoracic Endovascular Grafts for the Treatment of Aortic Arch Disease.

PURPOSE: Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), originally conceived for deployment distal to the left subclavian artery (LSA), has been recently extended to more proximal landing zones. Among total endovascular solutions, the "Canaud technique" for Physician-Modified Thoracic Endovascular Grafts (C-PMEGs) has gained acceptance with good early results. The aim of this study is to report the proportion of patients with zone 0, 1, and 2 aortic arch lesions that could theoretically be treated with a C-PMEG. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Computed tomography angiography (CTA) of all consecutive patient candidates to open, hybrid, or endovascular arch repair from January 2009 to July 2023 at our Institution were analyzed. The assessment of feasibility of C-PEMG was conducted following previously extensively described anatomical criteria. RESULTS: During the study period, 209 consecutive patients were candidates for an open, hybrid, or endovascular aortic arch repair. Of them, 164 patients had a preoperative CTA scan eligible for analysis. One hundred twenty-six patients were male (76.8 %), with a mean age of 67 ± 10.8 years. Ninety-four patients (57.3%) were affected by atherosclerotic aneurysms, 48 post-dissecting aneurysms (29.3%) and 22 penetrating aortic ulcers (PAUs) (13.4%). Twenty patients (12.2%) were suitable for double-fenestrated C-PMEG, and 34 patients (20.7%) for single-fenestrated C-PMEG, totaling 32.9% of the entire cohort. The combination of supra-aortic trunks (SAT) bypass or the use of covered stent in IA or left common carotid artery (LCCA) as adjunctive maneuvers, would extend the C-PMEGs feasibility to 69 patients (42.1%). The use of an iliac graft conduit in 3 (1.8%) patients with inadequate ileo-femoral accesses would increase the C-PMEG suitability to 72 patients (43.9%). The main reason for exclusion was excessive ascending aortic diameter in 78 patients (47.6%). CONCLUSIONS: The use of C-PMEG was shown to be theoretically feasible in a percentage of patients ranging from 32.9 to 43.9% affected by aortic arch aneurysms, dissections, and PAU. The main reason for exclusion was the dimension of the ascending aorta. The C-PMEG technique is a viable option in aortic arch lesions endovascular treatment. An off-the-shelf device with similar characteristics could also be used in emergency, avoiding the limitations of physician modifications (such as time for back-table procedure, sterility, off-label use). CLINICAL IMPACT: Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has been extended to more proximal landing zones for the treatment of aortic arch aneurysm, dissections, penetrating aortic ulcers. Among total endovascular solutions, the "Canaud technique" for Physician-Modified Thoracic Endovascular Grafts (C-PMEGs) has gained acceptance with good early results. The anatomical feasibility in 164 consecutive patients was 69 patients (42.1%), with the combination of supra-aortic trunks (SAT) bypass or the use of covered stent in IA or left common carotid artery (LCCA) as adjunctive maneuvers, showing that the C-PMEG technique is a viable option in aortic arch lesions endovascular treatment.

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.

Association of Impedance Aggregometry-Measured Platelet Aggregation With Thromboembolic Events in Patients Who Undergo Carotid Endarterectomy: A Pilot Study.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the current study was to assess the relationship among thrombin receptor activator peptide 6 (TRAP test), adenosine-5'-diphosphate (ADP test), arachidonic acid (ASPI test), and stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA), using the multiple electrode aggregometry (Multiplate) in patients undergoing carotid thromboendarterectomy (CEA). DESIGN: A retrospective study. SETTING: Vascular surgery operating rooms of a university hospital. PARTICIPANTS: One hundred thirty-one out of 474 patients undergoing CEA between November 2020 and October 2022. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: A preoperative blood sample of all enrolled patients was analyzed using the Multiplate analyzer. Receiver operating characteristics curves, were generated to test the ability of TRAP, ADP, and ASPI in discriminating perioperative thromboembolic stroke/TIA. A logistic LASSO regression model was used to identify factors independently associated with stroke/TIA. Eight patients experienced a perioperative stroke/TIA. Although all the platelet functional assays showed excellent predictive performance, an ADP value exceeding 72 U showed the highest specificity (87%) and sensitivity (68%) in discriminating patients who had a perioperative thromboembolic stroke/TIA, with a negative predictive value of 99% and a positive predictive value of 15%. After LASSO regression, an ADP >72 U and the need for a shunt during CEA were the only 2 variables independently associated with perioperative stroke/TIA. CONCLUSION: Because the ADP test was independently associated with perioperative stroke/TIA, the assessment of platelet reactivity using Multiplate may offer potential utility in monitoring patients undergoing CEA.

A systematic review of open, hybrid, and endovascular repair of aberrant subclavian artery and Kommerell's diverticulum treatment.

BACKGROUND: Aberrant subclavian artery (AScA) with or without associated Kommerell's diverticulum (KD) is the most frequently encountered anomaly of the aortic arch, it may be life threatening, especially when associated with aneurysmal degeneration. The best management is still debated and depends on many clinical and anatomical factors. A systematic review was conducted to assess the current evidence on the treatment options and their efficacy and safety for AscA and KD repairs. METHODS: A literature search in PubMed and Cochrane Library was performed, and articles that were published from January 1947 to August 2021 reporting on AscA and KD management were identified. Multicenter studies, single-center series, and case series with three or more patients were considered eligible in the present review. A comparison of outcomes of patients who underwent open surgery (OS), a hybrid approach (HA), and total endovascular repair (ER) (ie, 30-day mortality and stroke were analyzed when available and compared among the three groups (P < .05; Benjamini and Hochberg-adjusted P < .05; Bonferroni-adjusted P < .05). Titles, abstracts, and full texts were evaluated by two authors independently. Primary outcomes included survival rate, perioperative stroke, arm ischemia, and spinal cord ischemia. Endoleak, in the case of HA and ER, and reintervention rates were considered outcomes. RESULTS: Three hundred thirty-one articles were initially evaluated and 30 studies, totaling 426 patients treated for AScA with 324 KD, were included. Of the 426 patients, 241 were male (56.5%), and the mean patient age was 57.9 ± 12.0 years. The approach was OS in 228 patients, HA in 147 patients, and ER in 51. Dysphagia was the most common presentation in 133 cases. Aortic rupture was observed in 16 of the 426 patients (3.8%), including 14 AScA/KD (3.3%) aneurysm rupture. KD maximum diameter varied widely from 12.6 to 63.6 mm. The overall 30-day mortality was 20 (4.7%) (OS group 8/228 [3.5%]; HA group 10/147 [6.8%]; ER 2/51 [3.9%]; P = NS). The overall stroke rate was 4.9% (21/426) (OS group 10/228 [4.4%]; HA group 6/147 [4.1%]; ER group 5/51 [9.8%]; P = NS), including nine transient and nondisabling neurological deficits. Overall secondary procedures for complications were reported in 36 of the 426 cases (8.4%), mostly owing to endoleak. Follow-up varied from 13 to 74 months. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review assessed the current outcomes of the three types of therapeutic management for AScA and KD and demonstrated that they are all relatively safe and effective, providing satisfactory early and midterm outcomes. Long-term outcomes are warranted, especially for total ERs since the long-term durability of stent grafts remains unknown.

Open and endovascular reinterventions after Candy Plug false lumen embolization of type B aortic dissection.

OBJECTIVE: In the majority of patients with chronic type B aortic dissection, there is persistent retrograde flow in the false lumen (FL) through distal re-entry tears. Among several endovascular techniques proposed for FL management, the "Candy Plug" (CP) technique has gained acceptance with good early results. The aim of this study is to report the types and outcomes of open and endovascular reinterventions and identify mechanisms of procedure failure as well as other causes for reinterventions. METHODS: All patients with type B aortic dissection submitted to thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair and CP implantation for FL embolization from January 2016 to December 2022 at our institution were included in this study. The preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data of the primary intervention and secondary reinterventions, when performed, were prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative and postoperative computed tomography angiography were also analyzed. RESULTS: During the study period, 33 patients were submitted to thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair and CP implantation. Twenty-three patients (69.7%) showed thoracic FL complete thrombosis with aortic stability or positive remodeling at a mean follow-up of 45 ± 23.1 months. Ten patients (30.3%) underwent aortic reinterventions (male, n = 9; mean age, 60.5 ± 7.6 years). Of these 10 patients, in four patients, complete thrombosis of the FL was never achieved, leading to ongoing perfusion of the FL, defined as "primary failure." The other six patients underwent reinterventions for different causes: two patients, after initial sealing, showed a progressive enlargement of the abdominal FL leading to distal degeneration. One patient showed proximal degeneration, two patients showed a type II thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm and CP implantation was used as a planned procedure to reduce the extent of the surgical procedure, and one patient had recurrent, intractable back pain despite complete thrombosis of the FL. Reinterventions were open in five cases and endovascular in five. One in-hospital death (postoperative day 27) after a type II thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm open repair was recorded. In addition, two cases of delayed spinal cord ischemia after open reintervention were recorded: one resulting in permanent paraplegia and one transitory with complete recovery. CONCLUSIONS: The CP technique was safe and effective; however, a significant rate of aortic-related reintervention was observed. Several mechanisms led to reinterventions either in terms of "primary failure" of the CP or subsequent aneurysmal degeneration. Complex reinterventions were often necessary, with a high rate of major complications in case of open repair. Life-long and closer surveillance might be required in these patients.

A comparison of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms open repair in patients with or without "shaggy aorta".

OBJECTIVE: In the field of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) open surgical repair (OSR), some preoperative characteristics are established risk factors for adverse outcomes, whereas others are supposed to be relevant, but their role still need to be defined; among them, the presence of "shaggy aorta" (SA), an extensive and irregular atheroma within the aorta. The aim of this study is to report the results of a single-center large cohort of patients treated with OSR for TAAA with SA, comparing the outcomes with patients affected by TAAA without SA, and analyzing the impact of the scores for SA on the outcomes. METHODS: All consecutive patients receiving OSR for TAAA between 2012 and 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical data from patients with degenerative TAAA were included and analyzed for preoperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes; patients with ruptured TAAA, and patients with aortic dissection were excluded from the analysis. Patients with degenerative aortic aneurysm, thrombus measurement in non-aneurysmal aortic segments (≤40 mm), atheroma thickness ≥5 mm, and finger-like thrombus projection were included in the SA group, whereas the others were included in the non-shaggy aorta group (NSA group). The SA group and NSA group were compared using a propensity-matched comparison. Preoperative computed tomography scans of patients in the SA group were also stratified according to SA grading scores. RESULTS: A total of 58 patients with SA were identified (male, n = 43 [74.1%], mean age 70.1 ± 7.8 years) among 497 patients with TAAA treated with open surgical repair. After propensity matching, there were 57 patients in the SA group and 57 in the NSA group with correction of all differences in baseline characteristics. Patients in the SA group presented significantly higher in-hospital mortality (SA group, 14.0% vs NSA group, 3.5%; P = .047), postoperative acute renal failure (Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss of kidney function, and End-stage kidney disease [RIFLE], 3-5) (SA group, 21.1% vs NSA group, 5.3%; P = .013), and postoperative embolization (SA group, 28.1% vs NSA group, 8.8%; P = .008). Spinal cord ischemia and stroke rate were not significantly influenced by the presence of SA. In the SA group, 16 patients (27.6%) with end-organ embolization were compared with 42 patients (72.4%) without a documented embolization considering the grade of aortic "shagginess" and no significant difference was identified (P = .546). CONCLUSIONS: Despite a better knowledge of the SA disease, new classifications, and intraoperative adjuncts, TAAA patients with SA treated with OSR have worse postoperative outcomes if compared with patients without SA. The presence of SA is a risk factor itself, whereas the grade of "shagginess" seems not to impact on postoperative outcomes.

Fate of target visceral vessels in fenestrated and branched complex endovascular aortic repair.

OBJECTIVE: To assess branch vessel outcomes after endovascular repair of complex aortic aneurysms analyzing possible factors influencing early and long-term results. METHODS: The Italian Multicentre Fenestrated and Branched registry enrolled 596 consecutive patients treated with fenestrated and branched endografts for complex aortic disease from January 2008 to December 2019 by four Italian academic centers. The primary end points of the study were technical success (defined as target visceral vessel [TVV] patency and absence of bridging device-related endoleak at final intraoperative control), and freedom from TVV instability (defined as the combined results of type IC/IIIC endoleaks and patency loss) during follow-up. Secondary end points were overall survival and TVV-related reinterventions. RESULTS: We excluded 591 patients (3 patients with a surgical debranching and 2 patients who died before completion from the study cohort) were treated for a total of 1991 visceral vessels targeted by either a directional branch or a fenestration. The overall technical success rate was 98.4%. Failure was related to the use of an off-the-shelf (OTS) device (custom-made device vs OTS, HR, 0.220; P = .007) and a preoperative TVV stenosis of >50% (HR, 12.460; P < .001). The mean follow-up time was 25.1 months (interquartile range, 3-39 months). The overall estimated survival rates were 87%, 77.4%, and 67.8% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively (standard error [SE], 0.015, 0.022, and 0.032). During follow-up, TVV branch instability was observed in 91 vessels (5%): 48 type IC/IIIC endoleaks (2.6%) and 43 stenoses-thromboses (2.4%). The extent of aneurysm disease (thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm [TAAA] types I-III vs TAAA type IV/juxtarenal aortic aneurysm/pararenal aortic aneurysm) was the only independent predictor for developing a TVV-related type IC/IIIC endoleak (HR, 3.899; 95% confidence interval [CI]:, 1.924-7.900; P < .001). Risk of patency loss was independently associated with branch configuration (HR, 8.883; P < .001; 95% CI, 3.750-21.043) and renal arteries (HR, 2.848; P = .030; 95% CI, 1.108-7.319). Estimated rates at 1, 3, and 5 years of freedom from TVV instability and freedom from TVV-related reintervention were 96.6%, 93.8%, and 90% (SE, 0.005, 0.007, and 0.014) and 97.4%, 95.0%, and 91.6% (SE, 0.004, 0.007, and 0.013), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Intraoperative failure to bridge a TVV was associated with a preoperative TVV stenosis of >50% and the use of OTS devices. Midterm outcomes were satisfying, with an estimated 5-year freedom from TVV instability and reintervention of 90.0% and 91.6%, respectively. During follow-up, the larger extent of aneurysm disease was associated with an increased risk of TVV-related endoleaks, whereas a branch configuration and renal arteries were more prone to patency loss.

Spinal Cord Ischemia After Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysms Endovascular Repair: From the Italian Multicenter Fenestrated/Branched Endovascular Aneurysm Repair Registry.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to report an Italian multicenter experience analyzing the incidence and the risk factors associated with spinal cord ischemia (SCI) in a large cohort of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) treated by fenestrated-branched endovascular aneurysm repair (F-/B-EVAR). MATERIALS AND METHODS: All consecutive patients undergoing F-/B-EVAR in 4 Italian university centers between 2008 and 2019 were prospectively recorded and retrospectively analyzed. Spinal cord ischemia, 30 day/in-hospital adverse events, and mortality were assessed as early outcomes. Risk factors for SCI were determined by multivariable analysis. RESULTS: A total of 351 patients received F-/B-EVAR for a TAAA. Twenty-eight (8.0%) patients died within 30 postoperative days or during the hospitalization. Regarding SCI, 47 patients (13.4%) developed neurological symptoms related to spinal cord impaired perfusion. Among them, 17 (4.8%) had a major permanent impairment. The multivariable analysis identified that SCI was associated with Crawford extent I to III (odds ratio [OR]: 20.90, p=0.004, 95% confidence interval [CI]=2.69-162.57), and with endovascular procedures performed for ruptured TAAA (OR: 5.74, p=0.010, 95% CI=1.53-21.57). Spinal cord ischemia was also significantly associated with a grade 3 bleeding during the visceral stage (OR: 4.34, p=0.005, 95% CI=1.55-12.16) and a grade 2 renal insufficiency at 30 days (OR: 7.45, p=0.002, 95% CI=2.12-26.18). CONCLUSION: The present study indicates that SCI is still an open issue after extent I to III TAAA endovascular repair, while its incidence in extent IV TAAA and pararenal/juxtarenal aneurysms is rare. Thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms extension, urgent TAAA repair for rupture, severe bleeding, and 30 day renal insufficiency have been identified as significant risk factors for SCI. In the presence of such factors, adjunctive strategies may be considered to reduce SCI rates, while in low-risk patients invasive or potentially-risky maneuvers might not be justified.

Early and mid-term outcomes of open popliteal artery aneurysm repair with prosthetic grafts.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to assess the early and mid-term outcomes of open surgical repair (OSR) for popliteal artery aneurysms (PAAs) with prosthetic grafts. METHODS: The pre-, intra-, and postoperative data for all the patients who had undergone OSR for PAAs with prosthetic grafts at our Institution between January 2009 and July 2019 were included in a prospectively maintained database, which was retrospectively analyzed. Primary patency was defined as uninterrupted flow (<50% stenosis) in the graft with no additional procedures performed. Secondary patency was defined as the restoration of graft patency. RESULTS: A total of 82 patients had undergone OSR for 104 PAAs (median age, 71 years; interquartile range [IQR], 67-78 years; 82 men) with prosthetic grafts. Of the 104 PAAs, 72 (68%) had been asymptomatic. The median diameter was 30 mm (IQR, 24-37 mm). A medial approach was used for 35 PAAs (34%) and a posterior approach for 69 (65%). The repairs consisted of aneurysmectomy or aneurysm ligation without removal with an interposition graft placed and end-to-end anastomoses. The median operative time was 120 minutes (IQR, 103-142 minutes). The estimated blood loss was 281 mL (IQR, 150-281 mL). Only one patient treated with a posterior approach sustained a permanent peroneal nerve lesion. A second patient also treated via the posterior approach had required surgical revision for bleeding on postoperative day 2. No temporary lesions were recorded. No early amputations were required, and no perioperative deaths occurred. The median length of stay was 3 days (IQR, 3-4 days). An expanded polytetrafluoroethylene graft was used in 92 cases (88%) and a Dacron graft in 12 cases (12%). An 8-mm graft was used in 64 cases (62%). The median follow-up was 34.6 months (IQR, 8.5-62.7 months). No related mortality occurred. Of the 104 PAAs, 19 had required reintervention, with primary and secondary patency of 78% and 88% at 3 years, respectively. The median interval to reintervention was 28.3 months. CONCLUSIONS: OSR of PAAs with prosthetic grafts is safe and feasible, with good mid-term results and satisfactory primary and secondary patency at 3 years.

Role of historical and procedural staging during elective fenestrated and branched endovascular treatment of extensive thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.

OBJECTIVE: Procedural staging is often performed to reduce the incidence of spinal cord ischemia (SCI) during endovascular treatment of extensive thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs). However, its role in the case of previous thoracic or infrarenal aortic repair (historical staging) has been controversial. In the present study, we evaluated the SCI rates when procedural staging was routinely used and studied its potential benefits when previous aortic repairs had already been performed. METHODS: The data from patients treated electively with fenestrated/branched endovascular aortic repair for extent I, II, III, and V TAAAs were retrieved from a multicenter registry (four high-volume national teaching hospitals) and analyzed. The primary endpoint was the rate of SCI and its association with preoperative and postoperative variables, including historical staging, procedural staging, and an impaired collateral network (subclavian or hypogastric stenosis >75% per occlusion). Variables were defined in accordance with the Society for Vascular Surgery reporting standards. A logistic regression model with stepwise selection was used to identify the predictors of SCI. RESULTS: A total of 240 patients (76% male; median age, 73 years) were analyzed. Of the 240 patients, 43 (18%) had presented with an impaired collateral network, 136 (57%) had had historical staging, and 157 (65%) had received procedural staging. Preoperative spinal fluid cerebrospinal drainage was performed in 130 patients (54%). Permanent grade 3 SCI was observed in 13 patients (5%) and was negatively affected by both an impaired collateral network (odds ratio [OR], 17.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.7-176; P = .016) and the presence of bilateral iliac occlusive disease (OR, 10.1; 95% CI, 1.1-98.3; P = .046). Both historical (OR, 0.02; 95% CI, 0.001-0.46; P = .014) and procedural (OR, 0.01; 95% CI, 0.02-0.7; P = .019) staging mitigated the permanent SCI rates. The need for postoperative transfusions (OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1-1.8; P = .014) and the occurrence of postoperative renal complications (OR, 6.5; 95% CI, 1.2-35.0; P < .001) were associated with the development of SCI. Among the patients with historical staging, no further benefit from procedural staging was observed (SCI with procedural staging, 1%; vs no staging, 2%; P = NS). CONCLUSIONS: For patients with extensive TAAAs treated with fenestrated/branched endovascular aortic repair, both historical and planned procedural staging were associated with reduced permanent SCI rates. However, no additional benefit was observed when procedural staging was performed in patients with historical staging and an intact collateral network. The protective role of preoperative cerebrospinal fluid drainage placement requires further investigation.

Surgical and endovascular treatment of late postcoarctation repair aortic aneurysms: Results from an international multicenter study.

OBJECTIVE: The formation of postaortic coarctation aneurysms (pCoAA) is well-described in the literature and carries a significant risk of rupture and death. Treatment strategies include open surgical, hybrid, and endovascular repair, depending on the clinical presentation, risk assessment, and anatomy. The aim of this study was to report the early and midterm results of open surgical and endovascular repair of pCoAA. METHODS: This is an international multicenter retrospective study including patients who underwent open surgical or endovascular repair for pCoAA between 2000 and 2021 at 14 highly specialized academic cardiovascular centers. The preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 74 patients (46 male; median age, 44 years; interquartile range [IQR], 35-53 years) underwent pCoAA repair. All patients had previously undergone surgical repair of aortic coarctation at a median age of 11 years for the index procedure (IQR, 7-17 years). The most common first surgical correction was synthetic patch aortoplasty in 48 patients, followed by graft interposition in 11. The median pCoAA diameter was 54 mm (IQR, 44-63 mm). The median time from the aortic coarctation repair to the pCoAA diagnosis was 33 years (IQR, 25-40 years). A total of 33 patients had symptoms at presentation, including thoracic or back pain in 8 patients. Open surgical repair was performed in 28 patients, including four frozen elephant trunk procedures and one Bentall. The remaining 46 patients underwent endovascular repair of the pCoAA. Two in-hospital deaths were observed (one frozen elephant trunk and one endovascular). After a median follow-up of 50 months (IQR, 14-127 months), there were a total of seven reinterventions. CONCLUSIONS: This international multicenter study demonstrates that patients with pCoAA can be safely treated with either open surgical or endovascular interventions. Because the median time between the coarctation repair and the aneurysm formation was more than 30 years, life-long surveillance of these patients is warranted.

Sex Influence on Fenestrated and Branched Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair: Outcomes From a National Multicenter Registry.

INTRODUCTION: Women are generally underrepresented in trials focusing on aortic aneurysm. Nevertheless, sex-related differences have recently emerged from several studies and registries. The aim of this research was to assess whether sex-related anatomical disparities existed in fenestrated and branched aortic repair candidates and whether these discrepancies could influence endovascular repair outcomes. METHODS: Data from all consecutive patients treated during the 2008-2019 period within the Italian Multicenter fenestrated or branched endovascular aortic repair (F/BEVAR) Registry were included in the present study. Propensity matching was performed using a logistic regression model adjusted for demographic data and comorbidities to obtain comparable male and female samples. The selection model led to a final study population of 176 patients (88 women and 88 men) among the total initial cohort of 596. Study endpoints were technical and clinical success, overall survival, aneurysm-related death, and reintervention rates evaluated at 30 days and during follow-up. RESULTS: Twenty-eight patients (15.9%) received urgent/emergent repair. In most of the cases (71.6%), women received treatment for extensive thoracoabdominal pathology (Crawford type I, II, or III aneurysm rather than type IV or juxta-pararenal) versus 46.6% of men (p=0.001). Female patients presented with more challenging iliac accesses with at least one side considered hostile in 27.3% of the cases (vs 13.6% in male patients, p=0.039). Finally, women had significantly smaller visceral vessels. Women had significantly worse operative outcomes, with an 86.2% technical success rate versus 96.6% in the male population (p=0.016). No differences were recorded in terms of 30-day reinterventions between men and women. The 5-year estimate of freedom from late reintervention, according to Kaplan-Meier analysis, was 85.6% in men versus 81.6% in women (p=ns). No aneurysm-related death was recorded during follow-up (median observational time, 23 months [interquartile range, 7-45 months]). CONCLUSION: Women presented a significantly higher incidence of thoracoabdominal aneurysms, smaller visceral vessels, and more complex iliofemoral accesses, resulting in a significantly lower technical success after F/BEVAR. Further studies assessing sex-related differences are needed to properly determine the impact on outcomes and stratify procedural risks. CLINICAL IMPACT: Women are generally underrepresented in trials focusing on aortic aneurysms. Aiming to assess whether sex may affect outcomes after a complex endovascular aortic repair, a propensity score selection was applied to a total population of 596 patients receiving F/BEVAR aortic repair with the Cook platform, matching each treated female patient with a corresponding male patient. Women presented more frequently a thoracoabdominal aneurysm extent, smaller visceral vessels, and complex iliofemoral accesses, resulting in significantly worse operative outcomes, with an 86.2% technical success versus 96.6% (p=0.016). No differences were recorded in terms of short-term and mid-term reinterventions. According to these results, careful and critical assessment should be posed in case of female patients receiving complex aortic repair, especially regarding preoperative anatomical evaluation and clinical selection with appropriate surgical risk stratification.

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.

Association Between Type of Anaesthesia and Clinical Outcome in Patients Undergoing Endovascular Repair of Thoraco-Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms by Fenestrated and Branched Endografts.

OBJECTIVE: Although endovascular repair of thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) is the treatment of choice in the high risk population that is ineligible for an open surgical approach, little is known about the association between the type of anaesthesia and complications. This study compared the short term clinical outcomes of patients undergoing the visceral step of TAAA with fenestrated endograft aortic repair (FEVAR) and branched endograft aortic repair (BEVAR) under general anaesthesia (GA) with sedation with monitored care anaesthesia (MAC). METHODS: This single centre, retrospective, observational study recruited 124 consecutive patients undergoing elective F/BEVAR from 2014 - 2021. The primary endpoint was the short term complication rate according to the type of anaesthesia. Secondary endpoints included: need for inotropes or vasopressors for hypotension, time spent in the operating room, and admission to the intensive care unit. Propensity score matching was generated to account for the between group imbalance in the pre-operative covariables. RESULTS: After propensity score matching, 42 patients under GA were matched with 42 under MAC. The two groups showed no difference in cardiac and non-cardiac complications. Among the secondary outcomes, a higher number of patients in the GA group required inotropes or vasopressors compared with MAC (33% vs. 9%; p = .031). Although GA and MAC showed the same 30 day technical success (81% vs. 83%; p = .078), non-significant lower rates of major adverse events (10% vs. 12%; p = .72), one year re-intervention (14% vs. 21%; p = .39), and one year target vessel instability (10% vs. 21%; p = .39) were observed in the GA group. Overall, the in hospital mortality rate was 4%, with no difference between GA and MAC (2% vs. 5%; p = 1.0). CONCLUSION: The type of anaesthesia seemed to have no effect on procedure success, peri-operative morbidity, or mortality in patients undergoing F/BEVAR.

Fenestrated and Branched Endografts for Post-Dissection Thoraco-Abdominal Aneurysms: Results of a National Multicentre Study and Literature Review.

OBJECTIVE: Fenestrated and branched endografting (F/B-EVAR) has been proposed as an endovascular solution for chronic post-dissection thoraco-abdominal aneurysms (PD-TAAAs). The aim of this study was to analyse the experience of four high volume centres nationwide and the current available literature. METHODS: Data on patients undergoing F/B-EVAR in four Italian academic centres between 2008 and 2019 were collected, and those from patients with PD-TAAAs were analysed retrospectively. Peri-operative morbidity and mortality were assessed as early outcomes. Survival, freedom from re-intervention (FFR), target visceral vessel (TVV) patency, and aortic remodelling were assessed as follow up outcomes. A MEDLINE search was performed for studies published from 2008 to 2020 reporting on F/B-EVAR in PD-TAAAs. RESULTS: Among 351 patients who underwent F/B-EVAR for TAAAs, 37 (11%) had PD-TAAAs (Crawford's extent I-III: 35% - 95%). Overall, 135 TVVs (from true lumen 120; false lumen seven; both true and false lumen eight) were accommodated by fenestrations (96% - 71%) and branches (39% - 29%). Technical success (TS) was achieved in 34 (92%) cases with three failures due to endoleaks (Ia: 1; Ic: 1; III: 1). There were no 30 day deaths. No cases of permanent spinal cord ischaemia (SCI) were recorded and six (16%) patients suffered from transient deficits. Renal function worsening (eGFR < 30% than baseline) and pulmonary complications were reported in two (5%) and four (11%) cases, respectively. From the Kaplan-Meier analysis, three year survival, FFR, and TVV patency were 81%, 66%, and 97%, respectively. Radiological imaging was available for 30 (81%) patients at 12 months with complete false lumen thrombosis in 26 (87%). Two hundred and fifty-six patients were reported in seven published papers with TS, 30 day mortality, and SCI ranging from 99% to 100%, 0 to 6%, and 0 to 16%, respectively. The mean follow up ranged from 12 to 26 months, with estimated two year survival between 81% and 90% and a re-intervention rate between 19% and 53%. CONCLUSION: F/B-EVAR is effective to treat PD-TAAAs. A high re-intervention rate is necessary to complete the aneurysm exclusion and promote aortic remodelling successfully.

Contemporary Outcomes of in Situ Open Surgical Repair of Mid-Portion and Distal Renal Artery Aneurysms.

INTRODUCTION: The best management of renal artery aneurysms (RAAs) remains controversial, especially when they are located from the mid to distal portions of the main renal artery. Our aim is to evaluate our 10-year experience with in situ open surgical repairs from a cohort of non-proximal RAAs at a single vascular surgery center. METHODS: A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of all patients who underwent RAA in situ repairs located from the mid to distal portions of the renal artery at our Institution was performed between 2009 and 2020. Data on patient demographics, comorbidities, aneurysm location and morphology, type of in situ technique, and perioperative data were assessed. Postoperative biomarkers and renal function were collected, and mid-term follow-up results were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 15 RAA located at mid and distal portions of the renal artery repaired with in situ techniques were performed in 15 patients (nine men, mean age 62.4 ± 6.36 years). At diagnosis, 12 patients were asymptomatic; a history of abdominal pain was found in one patient, and two patients had drug-resistant hypertension. Two patients had already undergone previous unsuccessful attempts of endovascular treatment. All patients presented an aneurysm diameter >20 mm (mean diameter 2.75 ± 5 mm). At admission, mean serum creatinine and glomerular filtration rate were 1.10 ± 0.23 mg/dL and 69.8 ± 9.8 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively. Nine lesions were present in the distal portion of the renal artery, with 4 cases having ≥3 efferent branches and the other 5 with two efferent branches. The other six RAAs were in the mid-portion: in 4 cases, one efferent branch, and in 2 cases, two efferent branches were involved. All patients underwent in situ open repair: an end-to-end anastomosis was performed in 9 cases, aneurysm resection with primary closure in 3 cases, bypass with graft interposition in 2 cases (one iliac-renal reconstruction), and with vein interposition in 1 case. The mean renal ischemia time was 21.8 ± 9.4 min. A significant decrease on renal function was not observed (mean glomerular filtration rate at discharge: 64.8 ± 12.0 mL/min/1.73m2; P > 0.22). During recovery, one patient developed retroperitoneal hematoma treated conservatively. During follow-up (mean 46 months, range 2-135), one patient developed occlusion of a terminal renal artery branch without decreased kidney function. CONCLUSION: In situ techniques for RAA from the mid to distal portions of the renal artery are technically complex; however, based on our results, these procedures were safe and effective, providing satisfactory early and mid-term outcomes.

Endovascular Oriented Classification and Treatment of Celiac Trunk Aneurysms: 10 Years Experience.

OBJECTIVE: To propose an endovascular-oriented classification of celiac trunk aneurysms (CTa) and discuss single center results of this rare pathology. METHODS: Data of all patients admitted to our institution for CTa from 2011 to 2021 were prospectively collected. Of them, those who underwent endovascular treatment were retrospectively analyzed. All preoperative CT scans were reviewed and CTa were classified in 4 different configurations based on progressive distal landing zone. We excluded from the classification all cases with median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS), patients with coexistent aortic dilation or no endovascular proximal neck. Preoperative demographics, intraoperative data and post-operative complications were recorded. All-cause late mortality and complications were identified through a review of office charts and telephone assessment. RESULTS: During the study period 19 patients were referred to our Institution for CTa. Ten patients underwent endovascular treatment (ET). In 6 cases a watchful waiting strategy was adopted, 2 (10.5 %) patients refused ET and one patient without suitable proximal landing zone (< 10 mm) was not proposed to open surgical repair for surgical contraindication but is followed by strict instrumental and clinical evaluation. Six (60%) patients presented type 2 CTa; all of them underwent ET requiring positioning of covered stent-graft and SA embolization. Three (30%) patients presented type 3 CTa; all of them underwent ET with covered stent-graft deployment over the GDA with preliminary embolization. One (10%) patient presented type 4 CTa that was treated by means of covered stent-graft deployment along the right hepatic artery with left hepatic artery embolization. Overall, no major complications and perioperative mortality was observed. CONCLUSION: Celiac trunk aneurysms are rare, and no classifications have still been presented. Stent-graft exclusion provides excellent short-term outcome with no significant morbidity and mortality rate when technically feasible.

Anatomic feasibility of the investigational GORE EXCLUDER Thoracoabdominal Branch Endoprosthesis (TAMBE), off-the-shelf multibranched endograft for the treatment of pararenal and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the proportion of pararenal aortic aneurysms and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) that could theoretically be treated with the investigational GORE EXCLUDER Thoracoabdominal Branch Endoprosthesis (TAMBE; W. L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, Ariz) off-the-shelf multibranched endograft. METHODS: The preoperative computed tomography scans of patients with pararenal aortic aneurysms and TAAAs treated at a single institution between 2007 and 2017 were reviewed. This cohort included both open and endovascular repairs performed in either elective or urgent/emergent settings. These studies were included in a retrospective feasibility study to verify anatomic feasibility of the TAMBE graft (with four antegrade portals) employed within the manufacturer's investigational instructions for use during the U.S. pivotal trial. The patient cohort was divided into two groups: extended thoracoabdominal aneurysm (E-TAA)-extent I, II, and III TAAA; and limited pararenal and thoracoabdominal aneurysm (L-TAA)-pararenal aortic aneurysm and extent IV TAAA. The anatomic factors determining the overall theoretical feasibility were further divided into three groups: vascular access feasibility, aortic feasibility, and visceral vessel feasibility. RESULTS: Computed tomography scans of 227 patients with degenerative aneurysms were analyzed, 166 with E-TAA and 61 with L-TAA. In the L-TAA group, 49% of the cases could have been treated with the TAMBE endograft alone; access feasibility was 85%, aortic feasibility 74%, and visceral vessel feasibility 72%. In the E-TAA group, only 23% of the cases could have been treated with a TAMBE combined with a GORE CTAG proximal thoracic stent graft; access feasibility was 79%, aortic feasibility 48%, and visceral vessel feasibility 63%. The different feasibility rate was related to a difference in aortic feasibility between L-TAA and E-TAA (74% vs 48%; P = .0008) because of the lack of a dedicated tapered thoracic component. CONCLUSIONS: The TAMBE multibranched endograft can theoretically be employed in half of an all-comers cohort of patients with degenerative L-TAA. Development of a dedicated tapered thoracic component is warranted to increase the feasibility for E-TAA, and comparative studies are required to investigate differences with other available off-the-shelf stent grafts.

Comparison of anatomic feasibility of three different multibranched off-the-shelf stent-grafts designed for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.

OBJECTIVE: We compared the theoretical anatomic feasibility of endovascular treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) with three off-the-shelf multibranched stent-grafts: t-Branch (Zenith t-Branch; Cook Medical, Bloomington, Ind), Gore Excluder thoracoabdominal branch endoprosthesis (TAMBE; W. L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, Ariz), and E-nside (E-nside multibranch stent graft system; Jotec GmbH, Hechingen, Germany). METHODS: Computed tomography scans of patients with degenerative TAAAs treated from 2007 to 2019 were reviewed, and the anatomic feasibility of the multibranched stent-grafts was assessed according to the manufacturer's instructions for use. The anatomic factors determining the overall feasibility were divided into access feasibility, aortic feasibility, and visceral vessel feasibility. RESULTS: Degenerative TAAAs in 268 patients were analyzed. The overall feasibility did not differ significantly (TAMBE, 33%; t-Branch, 39%; E-nside, 43%; P = .271). Access, aortic, and visceral vessel feasibility alone excluded 18% to 22%, 35% to 49% and 21% to 26% of the patients respectively. The only significant difference between the devices was in aortic feasibility (P = .005), which was more frequently limited by the proximal aortic neck diameter in the TAMBE cohort and the inner visceral aortic diameter in the t-Branch cohort. The overall treatment feasibility using any of the three devices would have been 58%. CONCLUSIONS: The new investigational off-the-shelf multibranched stent-grafts did not significantly improve the theoretical applicability in an extensive cohort of patients with TAAAs. Improvements are warranted to increase their overall feasibility.