The thoracic endograft: a minimally invasive treatment option for aortic diseases.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Thoracic endografts provide a less invasive surgical option for treatment of descending aortic pathology. We present our early thoracic endograft experience with endovascular management of aneurysms, penetrating aortic ulcers, and traumatic injuries. METHODS: Fifteen consecutive patients scheduled for endograft placement at a single institution were evaluated on an intent-to-treat basis. Retrospective record review was used to determine patient demographics, surgical indications, operative, and follow-up care. RESULTS: Fourteen of 15 patients (93.3%) had successful endograft implantation. Thirty-day survival was 100%, with a 0% rate of spinal cord ischemia. Morbidity included access complications in two patients (13.3%) and a myocardial infarction in one patient (6.7%). CONCLUSIONS: Descending thoracic aortic pathology can be treated with low morbidity and mortality using endografts, even in high-risk patients. Continued post-placement surveillance is necessary.