ABSTRACT
The Amplatzer vascular plug (AVP) is derived from the Amplatzer device used in correction of cardiac septal defects. We present a large series of the use of the AVP in the endovascular management of aneurysms. Three patients with a combination of aortic and peripheral aneurysms underwent embolisation with the AVP. Plugs with 10-16 mm diameter were used and delivered using introducer/guiding sheaths. A total of 16 internal iliac arteries, 2 common iliac arteries (CIA), 4 subclavian (SCA) arteries, 1 superior mesenteric (SMA) and 1 popliteal artery were embolised. Successful occlusion with the AVP was achieved in 21 out of 24 vessels (87.5%), of which 18 (75%) occluded immediately and 3 (12.5%) were delayed occlusions. The three patients who are considered to have failed to occlude with the AVP required the use of additional embolic agents. At the end of the 17-month follow-up all 24 target vessels had occluded. Two patients developed persistent buttock claudication, and one had a left hemiparesis. The AVP is useful as an adjunctive device in the management of aneurysms. It has a particular role in embolisation of large-diameter vessels with a short implantation zone. The device is safe and easy to use.