Soluble glycoprotein VI predicts abdominal aortic aneurysm growth rate and is a novel therapeutic target.

ABSTRACT: A common feature in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) is the formation of a nonocclusive intraluminal thrombus (ILT) in regions of aortic dilation. Platelets are known to maintain hemostasis and propagate thrombosis through several redundant activation mechanisms, yet the role of platelet activation in the pathogenesis of AAA-associated ILT is still poorly understood. Thus, we sought to investigate how platelet activation affects the pathogenesis of AAA. Using RNA sequencing, we identified that the platelet-associated transcripts are significantly enriched in the ILT compared with the adjacent aneurysm wall and healthy control aortas. We found that the platelet-specific receptor glycoprotein VI (GPVI) is among the top enriched genes in AAA ILT and is increased on the platelet surface of patients with AAAs. Examination of a specific indicator of platelet activity, soluble GPVI (sGPVI), in 2 independent cohorts of patients with AAAs is highly predictive of an AAA diagnosis and associates more strongly with aneurysm growth rate than D-dimer in humans. Finally, intervention with the anti-GPVI antibody (JAQ1) in mice with established aneurysms blunted the progression of AAA in 2 independent mouse models. In conclusion, we show that the levels of sGPVI in humans can predict a diagnosis of AAA and AAA growth rate, which may be critical in the identification of high-risk patients. We also identify GPVI as a novel platelet-specific AAA therapeutic target, with minimal risk of adverse bleeding complications, for which none currently exists.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm repair in Sweden vs. Finland: benefits of population-wide screening.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: In 2006, screening of 65-year-old men for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) was started in Sweden. Decline in aneurysm-related mortality has been reported since, but aneurysm incidence has been diminishing globally. Neighbouring Finland with similar population structure and health care system has no AAA screening programme. The aim of this study was to compare incidence and results of AAA repair in Sweden and Finland to differentiate the effect of screening from other changes in the epidemiology and treatment of AAA. METHODS: All repairs for intact AAA (iAAA) or ruptured AAA (rAAA) from 1998 to 2017 were identified from national registers, and mortality data for these patients were collected. RESULTS: A total of 15 927 operations for iAAA were performed in Sweden and 6933 in Finland. In Sweden, the yearly operation volume increased after introduction of screening. Both countries showed a decrease in number of rAAA operations, but the decrease was more pronounced in Sweden. Sweden had a higher proportion of all AAA repairs because of rupture in the start of the study but by the end, the proportions were similar in both countries. Long-term survival improved for 65-79-old men in Sweden after start of screening. CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals improvements in results of AAA repair in Sweden. A decrease in rAAA repair and increase in iAAA repair were evident after AAA screening was started in 2006 and resulted in better outcomes. These changes are likely the result of AAA screening as they cannot be seen in neighbouring Finland that is lacking an AAA screening programme.

Sex-specific differences in alive hospital discharge following infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm repair.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: A longer time to alive hospital discharge following infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair is associated with reduced patient-satisfaction and increased length of stay, hospital-acquired deconditioning, infection and costs. This study investigated sex-specific differences in, and drivers of, the rate of alive hospital discharge. METHODS: Examination of UK National Vascular Registry (UK NVR), 2014-2019 and Swedish National Patient Registry (SE NPR) elective AAA patients, 2010-2018, for endovascular (EVAR) or open (OAR) aneurysm repair. Cox models assessed sex-specific difference in rate of alive hospital discharge, adjusting for co-morbidity, anatomy, standard-of-care, post-operative complications, and year, with in-hospital death as the competing risk. RESULTS: 29,751 AAA repairs (UK NVR -EVAR 12518:1532; OAR 6803:837; SE NPR - EVAR 4234:792; OAR 2638:497, men:women) were assessed. For EVAR, the unadjusted rate of alive hospital discharge was ∼25% lower for women (UK NVR HR 0.75 [0.71-0.80], p<.001; SE NPR HR 0.75 [0.69-0.81], p<.001). Following adjustment the sex-specific hazard ratio narrowed but remained significant (UK NVR: HR 0.83 [0.79-0.88], p<.001; SE NPR HR 0.83 [0.76-0.89], p<.001). For OAR, the rate of alive hospital discharge was 23-27% lower for women (UK NVR HR 0.73 [0.67-0.78], p<.001; SE NPR HR 0.77 [0.70-0.85], p<.001). Following adjustment the sex-specific hazard ratio narrowed (UK NVR HR 0.82 [0.76-0.88], p<.001; SE NPR HR 0.79 [0.72-0.88], p<.001) but remained significant. CONCLUSIONS: Women have a 25% lower rate of alive discharge after aortic surgery, despite adjustment for pre/peri- and postoperative parameters. Efforts to increase rate of alive hospital discharge for women should be sought.

Gut Microbiota-Derived Trimethylamine N-Oxide Contributes to Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Through Inflammatory and Apoptotic Mechanisms.

BACKGROUND: Large-scale human and mechanistic mouse studies indicate a strong relationship between the microbiome-dependent metabolite trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and several cardiometabolic diseases. This study aims to investigate the role of TMAO in the pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and target its parent microbes as a potential pharmacological intervention. METHODS: TMAO and choline metabolites were examined in plasma samples, with associated clinical data, from 2 independent patient cohorts (N=2129 total). Mice were fed a high-choline diet and underwent 2 murine AAA models, angiotensin II infusion in low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (Ldlr-/-) mice or topical porcine pancreatic elastase in C57BL/6J mice. Gut microbial production of TMAO was inhibited through broad-spectrum antibiotics, targeted inhibition of the gut microbial choline TMA lyase (CutC/D) with fluoromethylcholine, or the use of mice genetically deficient in flavin monooxygenase 3 (Fmo3-/-). Finally, RNA sequencing of in vitro human vascular smooth muscle cells and in vivo mouse aortas was used to investigate how TMAO affects AAA. RESULTS: Elevated TMAO was associated with increased AAA incidence and growth in both patient cohorts studied. Dietary choline supplementation augmented plasma TMAO and aortic diameter in both mouse models of AAA, which was suppressed with poorly absorbed oral broad-spectrum antibiotics. Treatment with fluoromethylcholine ablated TMAO production, attenuated choline-augmented aneurysm initiation, and halted progression of an established aneurysm model. In addition, Fmo3-/- mice had reduced plasma TMAO and aortic diameters and were protected from AAA rupture compared with wild-type mice. RNA sequencing and functional analyses revealed choline supplementation in mice or TMAO treatment of human vascular smooth muscle cells-augmented gene pathways associated with the endoplasmic reticulum stress response, specifically the endoplasmic reticulum stress kinase PERK. CONCLUSIONS: These results define a role for gut microbiota-generated TMAO in AAA formation through upregulation of endoplasmic reticulum stress-related pathways in the aortic wall. In addition, inhibition of microbiome-derived TMAO may serve as a novel therapeutic approach for AAA treatment where none currently exist.

International Collaborative Study Comparing Outcomes of Fenestrated Endovascular Aortic Repair in OCtogenarian vs Non-Octogenarian Patients: The FEVOC study.

OBJECTIVE: With an increasing life expectancy, more octogenarian patients are referred with complex aortic aneurysms (cAAA). The aim of this study was to evaluate short and mid-term outcomes following fenestrated aortic repair (FEVAR) in octogenarians. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: Few studies looking at octogenarian-specific outcomes with diverging results. METHODS: Retrospective, multicentre cohort study including consecutive patients undergoing elective FEVAR for cAAAs or type IV thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms between 2007-2022 in eight high-volume centres. Octogenarians vs. non-octogenarians were compared. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Secondary outcomes included 1, 2 and 5-year survival and reintervention rates. RESULTS: A total of 729 patients (median age of 74.8 years [IQR 69.2 - 79.14]) were included, 169 (23%) of which were octogenarians, with 316 (43.3%) patients undergoing juxta/pararenal aneurysm repair. Although octogenarians presented less complex but larger (61 mm vs. 58 mm) aneurysms, the number of fenestrations was similar across groups. No differences in in-hospital mortality (4.1 vs. 3.0%), MAE (16.6% vs 12.2%) or reintervention rates (11.2 vs. 10%) were found. Multivariable logistic regression of in-hospital mortality identified BMI (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.51-0.95, P=0.003), chronic heart failure (OR 7.70, 95% CI 1.36-36.15, P=0.003) and GFR<45 ml/min/1.73 m2 (OR 5.25, 95% CI 1.20-22.86, P=0.027) as independent predictors. Median follow-up was 41 months. The 1, 2 and 5-year survival rates were 91.3%, 81.8% and 49.5% in octogenarians vs 90.6%, 86.5% and 68.8% in non-octogenarian patients (Log-rank: =0.001). Freedom from aortic-related death and freedom from reintervention at five-years were similar across groups (log-rank=0.94 and .76, respectively). Age>80 was not an independent predictor of 30-day or long-term mortality on multivariable and Cox regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Elective FEVAR in octogenarians appears to be safe, with similar outcomes as in younger patients. Future studies looking at improved patient selection methods to ensure long-term survival benefits in both octogenarians and younger patients are warranted.

Difference in Risk Factor profile for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm and Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies suggest partly different risk factor profiles of thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), but prospective data are scarce. AIM/OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this prospective population-based case-control study was to investigate differences in risk factor profile between TAA and AAA. METHODS: Participants in two prospective population-based studies, the Västerbotten Intervention Project (VIP) and the Monitoring of Trends and Determinants in Cardiovascular Disease (MONICA) study, between 1986 and 2010 underwent cardiovascular risk assessments, including blood samples, oral glucose tolerance test, blood pressure readings and a self-reported health questionnaire. All individuals who were later diagnosed with TAA or AAA were identified. Age, sex, and time-matched controls were selected from the same cohorts, aiming at four controls / case. Adjusted odds ratios for potential risk factors for later diagnosis of TAA and AAA respectively, were estimated by multivariate conditional logistic regression analyses. RESULTS: From total 96,196 individuals with prospectively collected data in the VIP/MONICA cohort, a total of 236 individuals with AAA (181 men and 55 women) and 935 matched controls, and 168 individuals with TAA (115 men and 53 women) and 662 controls were included. The average age at baseline examination was 57.0 ± 5.7 years for AAA cases and controls, and 52.1 ± 8.8 years for TAA cases and controls. Mean time between baseline examination and diagnosis of AAA/TAA was 12.1 and 11.7 years respectively. There was a clear difference in risk factor profile between AAA and TAA. Smoking, hypertension and coronary artery disease were significantly associated with later diagnosis of AAA with highest adjusted odds ratio for a history of smoking (OR 10.3, 95% CI 6.3-16.8). For TAA, hypertension was the only positive risk factor (OR 1.7, CI 1.1-2.7), while smoking was not associated. Diabetes was not associated with either AAA or TAA, neither was self-reported physical activity. CONCLUSIONS: In this prospective population-based case-control study risk factor profile differed between AAA and TAA. This suggests a partially different etiology for TAA and AAA.

The association of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm diameter with mortality in the International Consortium of Vascular Registries.

BACKGROUND: The mortality after ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA) repair is high, despite improvements in perioperative care, centralization of emergency vascular surgical services, and the introduction of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). The diameter of intact AAA has been shown to be a predictor of short- and long-term survival. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of AAA diameter on mortality for rAAA repair using contemporary data collected from the International Consortium of Vascular Registries and compare outcomes by sex and the type of repair patients received. METHODS: Prospective registry data on repair of rAAA from seven countries were collected from 2010 to 2016. The primary outcome was perioperative mortality after EVAR and open surgical repair (OSR). Data were stratified by type of repair and sex. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratio (OR) for the association between AAA diameter and perioperative mortality and the association between type of repair and mortality. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to adjust for differences in patient characteristics. RESULTS: The study population consisted of 6428 patients with a mean age ranging from 70.2 to 75.4 years; the mean AAA diameter was 7.7 ± 1.8 cm. Females had a significantly smaller AAA diameter at presentation compared with males (6.9 ± 1.6 cm vs 7.9 ± 1.8 cm; P < .001). who underwent OSR had larger AAA diameters compared with those who underwent EVAR (P < .001). Females who underwent repair were significantly older (P < .001). Males were more likely to have cardiac disease, diabetes mellitus, and renal impairment. Overall, AAA diameter was a predictor of mortality in univariate and multivariate analysis. When analyzing EVAR and OSR separately, the impact of AAA diameter per cm increase on mortality was apparent in both males and females undergoing EVAR, but not OSR (EVAR: male OR, 1.09 [95% confidence interval, 1.03-1.16] and EVAR: female OR, 1.17 [95% confidence interval, 1.02-1.35]). The early mortality rate for males and females who underwent EVAR was 18.9% and 25.9% (P < .001), respectively. The corresponding mortality for males and females who underwent OSR was 30.2% and 38.6% (P < .001), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In these real-world international data, there is a significant association between rAAA diameters and early mortality in males and females. This association was more evident in patients undergoing EVAR, but not shown in OSR. Despite improvements in overall AAA repair outcomes, the risk of mortality after rAAA repair is consistently higher for females.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of cerebrospinal fluid drain-related mortality and morbidity after fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the incidence of cerebrospinal fluid drainage (CSFD)-related complications specifically in patients who underwent fenestrated and branched endovascular aortic repair (F/B-EVAR). This objective was chosen considering the limitations and uncertainties surrounding its efficacy in preventing spinal cord injury. METHODS: A systematic review following Cochrane Handbook and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was conducted (PROSPERO; #CRD42022359223). Literature searches of MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus were performed until May 1, 2023, focusing on studies published after January 1, 2000. The inclusion criteria encompassed studies reporting on F/B-EVAR, CSFD, and drain-related complications. Data extraction and quality assessment using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale were performed by multiple reviewers to ensure accuracy and reliability. A proportion meta-analysis was conducted to calculate the pooled rate and 95% confidence interval (CI). The primary and secondary outcomes were CSFD-related mortality and morbidity, respectively. RESULTS: Six retrospective, observational, single-center studies were included, totaling 1079 patients and 730 CSFD placements (all prophylactic except for one). The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale showed a high to moderate risk of bias. The analysis revealed a CSFD-related mortality rate of 1.4% (95% CI: 0.0-4.8; I2 = 67.7%) and an overall morbidity rate of 25.6% (95% CI: 13.6-39.7; I2 = 83.2%). The overall major, moderate, and minor estimated complication rates were 6.1% (95% CI: 4.1-8.5; I2 = 0%), 4.6% (95% CI: 2.4-7.3; I2 = 33.5%), and 26.4% (95% CI: 16.5-37.7; I2 = 84.9%), respectively. Severe complications included intracranial hemorrhage (2.8%), spinal hematoma (1.4%), subarachnoid hemorrhage (1.4%), and CSFD-related neurological deficits (1.1%). A pooled estimate of 11.4% for nonfunctioning drainage was found. CONCLUSIONS: F/B-EVAR patients showed a notable incidence of CSFD-related death and substantial morbidity. This study highlights the limitations of the available data, the high prevalence of complications associated with CSFD, and the need for further research to better understand the risks and benefits of CSFD in F/B-EVAR. This calls for careful consideration regarding the routine use of prophylactic drainage due to the accumulating evidence of the risks associated with CSFD without proven benefit in this specific context.

Urgent endovascular repair of juxtarenal/pararenal aneurysm by off-the-shelf multibranched endograft.

OBJECTIVE: To report outcomes of urgent juxtarenal/pararenal aneurysms (J/P-AAAs) managed by off-the-shelf multibranched thoracoabdominal endografts (Cook, T-branch). METHODS: In this observational, multicenter, retrospective study, patients with J/P-AAAs treated by urgent endovascular repair by T-branch in 23 European aortic centers, from 2013 to 2023, were analyzed. Contained J/P-AAAs rupture, presence of related symptoms, and aneurysm diameter of >70 mm were considered as indication for urgent repair. Technical success (TS), spinal cord ischemia (SCI), and 30-day/hospital mortality were assessed as early outcomes. Survival, freedom from reinterventions, and target artery instability (TAI) were evaluated during follow-up. RESULTS: Overall, 197 patients (J-AAAs, n = 64 [33%]; P-AAAs, n = 95 [48%]; previous failed endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), n = 38 [19%]) were analyzed. The mean age and aneurysm diameter was 75 ± 8 years and 76 ± 4 mm, respectively. The American Society of Anesthesiologists score was 3 and 4 in 118 (60%) and 79 (40%) patients. Rupture, symptoms, and diameter of >70 mm were present in 51 (26%), 110 (56%), and 53 (27%) patients, respectively. An adjunctive proximal thoracic endograft was used in 28 cases (14%). The mean aortic coverage between the upper portion of the endograft and the lowest renal artery was 154 ± 49 mm. Single-stage repair and cerebrospinal fluid drainage were reported in 144 (73%) and 53 (27%) cases, respectively. TS was achieved in 182 (92%) cases (rupture, 84% vs no rupture, 95%; P = .02). Failures consist of TA loss (11 [6%]: renal artery, 9; celiac trunk, 2), type I to III endoleaks (2 [1%]), and 24-h mortality (2 [1%]). Rupture was a risk factor for technical failure (P = .02; odds ratio [OR], 3.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-12.1). Overall, 15 patients (8%) had persistent SCI (rupture, 14% vs no rupture, 5%) with 11 (6%) , of paraplegia (rupture, 10% vs no rupture, 5%; P = .001). Rupture (P = .04; OR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.1-8.9) and adjunctive proximal thoracic endograft (P = .01; OR, 4.1; 95% CI, 1.3-12.9) were risk-factors for SCI. Twenty-two patients (11%) died within 30 days or during a prolonged hospitalization. Previous failed EVAR (P = .04; OR, 3.6; 95% CI, 1.1-12.3), paraplegia (P < .001; OR, 9.9; 95% CI, 1.6-62.2) and postoperative mesenteric complications (P = .03; OR, 10.4; 95% CI, 1.2-93.3), as well as cardiac (P = .03; OR, 8.2; 95% CI, 2.0-33.0) and respiratory (P < .001; OR, 10.1; 95% CI, 2.9-35.2) morbidities were associated with 30-day/hospital mortality. The mean follow-up was 19 ± 5 months. The estimated 3-year survival and freedom from reinterventions was 58% and 77%, respectively. TAI occurred in 27 patients (14%) (occlusion, 15; endoleak, 14) with an estimated 3-year freedom from TAI of 72%. CONCLUSIONS: Urgent repair of J/P-AAAs by T-branch is feasible and effective with satisfactory TS and 30-day/hospital mortality in high-risk patients. However, extensive aortic coverage is necessary, leading to a non-negligible SCI rate, especially in case of aortic rupture or when adjunctive thoracic endografts are necessary. Previous failed EVAR and postoperative mesenteric complications, as well as cardiac and respiratory morbidities were associated with 30-day/hospital mortality and should be subjected to more research for the purposes of improving outcomes.

The sac evolution imaging follow-up after endovascular aortic repair: An international expert opinion-based Delphi consensus study.

OBJECTIVE: Management of follow-up protocols after endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) varies significantly between centers and is not standardized according to sac regression. By designing an international expert-based Delphi consensus, the study aimed to create recommendations on follow-up after EVAR according to sac evolution. METHODS: Eight facilitators created appropriate statements regarding the study topic that were voted, using a 4-point Likert scale, by a selected panel of international experts using a three-round modified Delphi consensus process. Based on the experts' responses, only those statements reaching a grade A (full agreement ≥75%) or B (overall agreement ≥80% and full disagreement <5%) were included in the final document. RESULTS: One-hundred and seventy-four participants were included in the final analysis, and each voted the initial 29 statements related to the definition of sac regression (Q1-Q9), EVAR follow-up (Q10-Q14), and the assessment and role of sac regression during follow-up (Q15-Q29). At the end of the process, 2 statements (6.9%) were rejected, 9 statements (31%) received a grade B consensus strength, and 18 (62.1%) reached a grade A consensus strength. Of 27 final statements, 15 (55.6%) were classified as grade I, whereas 12 (44.4%) were classified as grade II. Experts agreed that sac regression should be considered an important indicator of EVAR success and always be assessed during follow-up after EVAR. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the elevated strength and high consistency of this international expert-based Delphi consensus, most of the statements might guide the current clinical management of follow-up after EVAR according to the sac regression. Future studies are needed to clarify debated issues.

An international, expert-based, Delphi consensus document on controversial issues in the management of abdominal aortic aneurysms.

OBJECTIVE: As a result of conflicting, inadequate or controversial data in the literature, several issues concerning the management of patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) remain unanswered. The aim of this international, expert-based Delphi consensus document was to provide some guidance for clinicians on these controversial topics. METHODS: A three-round Delphi consensus document was produced with 44 experts on 6 prespecified topics regarding the management of AAAs. All answers were provided anonymously. The response rate for each round was 100%. RESULTS: Most participants (42 of 44 [95.4%]) agreed that a minimum case volume per year is essential (or probably essential) for a center to offer open or endovascular AAA repair (EVAR). Furthermore, 33 of 44 (75.0%) believed that AAA screening programs are (probably) still clinically effective and cost effective. Additionally, most panelists (36 of 44 [81.9%]) voted that surveillance after EVAR should be (or should probably be) lifelong. Finally, 35 of 44 participants (79.7%) thought that women smokers should (or should probably/possibly) be considered for screening at 65 years of age, similar to men. No consensus was achieved regarding lowering the threshold for AAA repair and the need for deep venous thrombosis prophylaxis in patients undergoing EVAR. CONCLUSIONS: This expert-based Delphi consensus document provides guidance for clinicians regarding specific unresolved issues. Consensus could not be achieved on some topics, highlighting the need for further research in those areas.

Statin therapy after elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair improves long-term survival.

BACKGROUND: Patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms are at high risk of cardiovascular events. Although statin therapy is indicated for most of these patients, no specific recommendation regarding the intensity of therapy exists. The aim of this study was to assess the possible effect of statin therapy on survival of patients undergoing abdominal aortic aneurysm repair and to investigate if high-intensity statin therapy was superior to low-moderate-intensity therapy. METHODS: Data from nationwide Swedish registers on hospital admissions, operations, and medications for patients undergoing elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair from 2006 to 2018 were collected. The effect of statin use was evaluated in three separate propensity score matched cohorts: perioperative mortality was analysed according to whether patients were on statins before abdominal aortic aneurysm repair or not; long-term survival was assessed according to whether patients were on statins during follow-up or not; and, for those on statins after surgery, long-term survival was analysed according to whether patients were on high-intensity or low-moderate-intensity statin therapy. RESULTS: Preoperative statin use did not reduce 90-day perioperative mortality (OR 0.99, 95% c.i. 0.77 to 1.28), whilst there was a marked benefit regarding long-term survival for postoperative statin users (HR 1.43, 95% c.i. 1.34 to 1.54). High-intensity statin therapy had no advantage over low-medium-intensity statin therapy with regards to long-term survival (HR 1.00, 95% c.i. 0.80 to 1.25). CONCLUSION: In this nationwide propensity score matched cohort study, preoperative statin treatment had no benefit regarding 90-day perioperative survival, but postoperative statin treatment markedly improved long-term survival. No additional benefit regarding high-dose statin treatment could be confirmed in this analysis.

Six Years' Experience With a Novel Dissection-Specific Stent-Graft to Prevent Distal Stent-Graft-Induced New Entry.

INTRODUCTION: Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in chronic dissection is associated with a risk for distal stent-graft-induced new entry (dSINE) in up to a quarter of cases. We assess the mid-term outcome of a novel dissection-specific stent-graft (DSSG), which is a custom-made device based on the Cook Alpha platform, with a modified graft design and a distal endovascular elephant trunk without any supporting stent to reduce the radial force on the dissection membrane at the distal landing zone. METHODS: A retrospective single-center study of chronic dissection patients at high risk of dSINE who received an elective endovascular repair with DSSG from January 2017 to June 2023. The primary outcome is Kaplan-Meier (KM) estimated freedom from dSINE during follow-up. Secondary outcomes included technical success, aortic remodeling, and anatomical evaluation of the distal landing zone in cases with dSINE during follow-up versus those without. RESULTS: Thirty patients (24 males) with a median age of 66 years [range=31-78] underwent elective TEVAR with the DSSG. The majority, n=27 (90%), had previous aortic repair; 7 (23%) had established connective tissue disease, and 6 (20%) had established dSINE after previous stent-graft implantation as an indication for TEVAR. Technical success was achieved in n=29 (97%). Median follow-up was 38.5 months (4.3-76.4), and KM estimated freedom from dSINE at 1 and 3 years was 95.6% (SE 0.043) and 89% (SE 0.081), respectively Four cases developed dSINE during follow-up. The median distance from the distal stent-graft to the coeliac trunk was 74mm (range=18-123) in the dSINE group versus 26mm (range=0-74) in the non-dSINE group (p=0.049). Median proximal tangential aortic angulation in the distal landing zone was 38.5° (range=26°-50°) in the dSINE group compared to 21° (range=3-61°) in the non-dSINE group (p=0.052). CONCLUSIONS: The Use of a novel DSSG with low radial force for TEVAR in the setting of chronic dissection is safe and feasible, with remodeling outcomes comparable with standard TEVAR. The reduced distal radial force in the DSSG does not eliminate the risk for dSINE over time, with new entries occurring, particularly in cases where the distal landing zone is in a tortuous aortic segment and not close to the coeliac trunk. CLINICAL IMPACT: Using the novel dissection-specific stent-graft with reduced radial force is safe and feasible but does not completely eliminate the risk of dSINE occurring over time. The exact positioning of the distal stent-graft in a straight aortic segment, close to the coeliac trunk, may be of importance to further mitigate the risk.

European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Publication Standards for Reporting Vascular Surgical Research.

OBJECTIVE: Manuscripts submitted to the European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery (EJVES) often contain shortcomings in baseline scientific principles and incorrectly applied methodology. Consequently, the editorial team is forced to offer post hoc repair in an attempt to support the authors to improve their manuscripts. This repair could theoretically have been prevented by providing more clear definitions and reporting standards to serve researchers when planning studies and eventually writing their manuscripts. Therefore, here we summarise the general principles for EJVES reporting standards. METHODS: These reporting standards did not follow a systematic approach but reflect the common opinion of the current senior and section editors team. This team decided to only include recommendations regarding the most common pathologies in vascular surgery in this first edition of reporting standards, namely carotid artery disease, abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD), and chronic venous disease. In future editions, we plan to expand the areas of research. RESULTS: We present (1) a common set of minimum but required reporting standards applicable to every report, e.g., patient characteristics, study design, treatment environment, selection criteria, core outcomes of interventions such as 30 day death and morbidity, and measures for completeness of data including outcome information, and (2) a common set of minimum reporting standards for four vascular areas. CONCLUSION: The editors of the EJVES propose universally accepted definitions and reporting standards for carotid artery disease, AAA, PAOD, and chronic venous disease. This will enable the development of a convincing body of evidence to aid future clinical practice guidelines and drive clinical practice in the right direction. These first ever publication and reporting standards for EJVES aim to improve future research in our journal.

Intravascular Ultrasound in the Detection of Bridging Stent Graft Instability During Fenestrated and Branched Endovascular Aneurysm Repair Procedures: A Multicentre Study on 274 Target Vessels.

OBJECTIVE: The use of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) reduces contrast medium use and radiation exposure during conventional endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of IVUS in detecting bridging stent graft (bSG) instability during fenestrated and branched EVAR (F/B-EVAR). METHODS: This was a prospective observational multicentre study. The following outcomes were evaluated: (1) technical success of the IVUS in each bSG, (2) IVUS findings compared with intra-operative angiography, (3) incidence of post-operative computed tomography angiography (CTA) findings not detected with IVUS, and (4) absence of IVUS related adverse events. Target visceral vessel (TVV) instability was defined as any branch or fenestration issues requiring an additional manoeuvre or re-intervention. Any IVUS assessment that detected stenosis, kinking, or any geometric TVV issue was considered to be branch instability. All procedures were performed in ad hoc hybrid rooms. RESULTS: Eighty patients (69% males; median age 72 years; interquartile range 59, 77 years) from four aortic centres treated with F/B-EVAR between January 2019 and September 2021 were included: 70 BEVAR (21 off the shelf; 49 custom made), eight FEVAR (custom made), and two F/B-EVAR (custom made), for a total of 300 potential TVVs. Two TVVs (0.7%) were left unstented and excluded from the analysis. The TVVs could not be accessed with the IVUS catheter in seven cases (2.3%). Furthermore, 17 (5.7%) TVVs could not be examined due to a malfunction of the IVUS catheter. The technical success of the IVUS assessment was 91.9% (274/298), with no IVUS related adverse events. Seven TVVs (2.5%) showed signs of bSG instability by means of IVUS, leading to immediate revisions. The first post-operative CTA at least 30 days after the index procedure was available in 268 of the 274 TVVs originally assessed by IVUS. In seven of the 268 TVVs (2.6%) a re-intervention became necessary due to bSG instability. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that IVUS is a safe and potentially valuable adjunctive imaging technology for intra-operative detection of TVV instability. Further long term investigations on larger cohorts are required to validate these promising results and to compare IVUS with alternative technologies in terms of efficiency, radiation exposure, procedure time, and costs.

Editor's Choice - Vascular Registries Contributing to VASCUNET Collaborative Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Outcome Projects: A Scoping Review.

OBJECTIVE: Vascular surgery registries report on procedures and outcomes to promote patient safety and drive quality improvement. International registries have contributed significantly to the VASCUNET collaborative abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) outcome projects. This scoping review aimed to outline the national registries in vascular surgery that currently participate in the VASCUNET collaborative AAA projects. METHODS: A scoping review of all published VASCUNET AAA studies and validation reports between 1997 and 2024 was undertaken. A survey was conducted among representatives of the international vascular registries contributing to VASCUNET collaborative AAA projects. RESULTS: Currently, vascular registries from 10 countries (Australia, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Iceland, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the UK) contribute to the current VASCUNET collaborative AAA project, of which eight have national coverage. In the past, three countries (Germany, Malta, and Italy) have participated in previous VASCUNET AAA projects, and a further three countries (Serbia, Greece, and Portugal) have planned participation in future projects. External validity is high for all current registries, with most reporting rates of > 90%. The majority have internal validation processes to assess data accuracy. VASCUNET mediated validation has also been performed by the consortium for five countries to date (Hungary, Sweden, Denmark, Malta, and Switzerland), for which a high degree of external and internal validity was identified. Most registries have established mechanisms for data linkage with national administrative datasets or insurance claims datasets and contribute to quality improvement through regular reporting to participating centres. CONCLUSION: National vascular registries from nations participating in the VASCUNET collaborative AAA projects are largely comprehensive, with high case ascertainment rates and good quality data with internal quality assurance. This provides a template for new registries wishing to join the VASCUNET collaboration and a benchmark for future research.

Branch Thrombus after Endovascular Treatment with Arch Branched Devices for Aortic Arch Pathologies.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe the occurrence of branch thrombosis following endovascular treatment of aortic arch pathology using an arch branched device (ABD) and to determine whether this is influenced by clinical and geometric parameters. METHODS: In this retrospective observational study of patients treated with an ABD in three centres, the primary endpoint was thrombus formation within a branch during follow up. Secondary endpoints were technical success, serious adverse events (SAEs), early and late death, stroke, and re-interventions. Geometric measurements (tortuosity index and curvature) were determined on pre- and post-operative computed tomography angiograms. RESULTS: Thirty nine patients were treated and 68 antegrade branches were analysed (innominate artery, n = 27; common carotid artery [CCA], n = 40; left subclavian artery [LSA], n = 1). Thrombus was identified within seven branches (10%) on surveillance imaging (innominate artery, n = 6; CCA, n = 1; LSA, n = 0; p = .021) and was associated with a wider distal bridging stent diameter (median 14.0 mm [13.3, 15.3] vs. 8.7 mm [IQR 5.9]; p = .026), a higher degree of reversed tapering (4.3 mm [3.8, 5.2] vs. 1.2 mm [0.3, 3.1]; p = .023), use of polyethylene terephthalate (Dacron) covered (vs. expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) bridging stents (23% vs. 2%; p = .011), and higher body mass index (BMI) (32.1 kg/m2 [28.7, 36.2] vs. 25.7 kg/m2 [23.8, 29.2]; p = .029), but not with pre-operative or post-operative tortuosity index or curvature or alterations. Regarding secondary outcomes, the technical success rate was 97%, SAEs occurred in 15 patients (38%), early and late death rates were 8% and 23%, respectively, and early and late stroke rates were 5% and 23%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The risk of developing branch thrombosis after endovascular intervention with an ABD is considerable, especially of innominate artery branches, characterised by Dacron covered large diameter bridging stents, and in patients with a high BMI. Large prospective studies are required to analyse factors associated with branch thrombosis.

Editor's Choice - Outcomes Following Intact and Ruptured Aneurysm Repair across Nations: Analysis of International Registry Data from the VASCUNET Collaboration 2014 - 2019.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the peri-operative mortality rate for intact and ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair in 10 countries and to compare practice and outcomes over a six year period by age, sex, and geographic location. METHODS: This VASCUNET study used prospectively collected data from vascular registries in 10 countries on primary repair of intact and ruptured AAAs undertaken between January 2014 and December 2019. The primary outcome was peri-operative death (30 day or in hospital). Logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between peri-operative death, patient characteristics, and type of procedure. Factors associated with the use of endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) were also evaluated. RESULTS: The analysis included 50 642 intact and 9 453 ruptured AAA repairs. The proportion of EVARs for intact repairs increased from 63.4% in 2014 to 67.3% in 2016 before falling to 62.3% in 2019 (p < .001), but practice varied between countries. EVAR procedures were more common among older patients (p < .001) and men (p < .001). Overall peri-operative mortality after intact AAA repair was 1.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3 - 1.5%) and did not change over time. Mortality rates were stable within countries. Among ruptured AAA repairs, the proportion of EVARs increased from 23.7% in 2014 to 35.2% in 2019 (p < .001). The average aortic diameter was 7.8 cm for men and 7.0 cm for women (p < .001). The overall peri-operative mortality rate was 31.3% (95% CI 30.4 - 32.2%); the rates were 36.0% (95% CI 34.9 - 37.2%) for open repair and 19.7% (95% CI 18.2 - 21.3%) for EVAR. This difference and shift to EVAR reduced peri-operative mortality from 32.6% (in 2014) to 28.7% (in 2019). CONCLUSION: The international practice of intact AAA repair was associated with low mortality rates in registry reported data. There remains variation in the use of EVAR for intact AAAs across countries. Overall peri-operative mortality remains high after ruptured AAA, but an increased use of EVAR has reduced rates over time.

Role of Antiplatelet Therapy in Patients Managed for Complex Aortic Aneurysms using Fenestrated or Branched Endovascular Repair.

OBJECTIVE: Despite the increasing number of fenestrated/branched endovascular aortic repair (f/bEVAR) procedures, evidence on post-operative antiplatelet therapy is lacking. This study aimed to investigate the role of single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) vs. double antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after f/bEVAR on 30 day and follow up outcomes. METHODS: A multicentre retrospective analysis was conducted, including f/bEVAR patients managed from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2022. Comparative outcomes were assessed according to post-operative antiplatelet therapy. The cohort was divided into the SAPT group (acetylsalicylic acid [ASA] or clopidogrel) and DAPT group (ASA and clopidogrel). The duration of SAPT or DAPT was one to six months. Primary outcomes were 30 day death, and cardiovascular ischaemic and major haemorrhagic events. Secondary outcomes were survival and target vessel (TV) patency during follow up. RESULTS: A total of 1 430 patients were included: 955 under SAPT and 475 under DAPT. The 30 day mortality was similar (SAPT 2.1% vs. DAPT 1.5%; p = .42). Cardiovascular ischaemic events were lower in the DAPT group (SAPT 11.9% vs. DAPT 8.2%; p = .040), with DAPT being an independent protector for acute mesenteric (p = .009) and lower limb ischaemia (p = .020). No difference was found in 30 day major haemorrhagic events (SAPT 7.5% vs. DAPT 6.3%; p = .40). The mean follow up was 21.8 ± 2.9 months. Cox regression showed no cofounders on survival, with similar rates between groups (log rank p = .71). DAPT patients presented higher TV patency (SAPT 93.4%, standard error [SE] 0.7% vs. DAPT 96.6%, SE 0.7%; log rank p = .007) at thirty six months. Cox regression revealed bEVAR as a predictor of worse TV patency (hazard ratio 2.03, 95% confidence interval 1.36 - 3.03; p < .001). DAPT was related to higher patency within bEVAR patients (SAPT 87.2%, SE 2.1% vs. DAPT 94.9%, SE 1.9%; p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: DAPT after f/bEVAR was associated with lower risk of cardiovascular ischaemic events and higher TV patency, especially in bEVAR cases. No difference in major haemorrhagic events was observed at 30 days.

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.