Early and midterm results after endovascular treatment of atherosclerotic descending thoracic aortic aneurysms: a single-centre experience

Aim. Despite significant improvement in anesthetic, surgical techniques and postoperative care, the mortality and morbidity rate in thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) open repair remains high. Endovascular stent-graft repair may provide an alternative treatment in these patients. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate short and mid-term morbidity and mortality rate after endovascular stent-graft treatment of degenerative non dissecting TAA. Methods. Between June 2000 and December 2005,22 consecutive patients with degenerative TAAs, underwent endovascular stent-graft treatment in elective procedure. Follow-up investigations were performed after 1, 3,6 months and annually thereafter. Results. Perioperative mortality rate was 4.5% (1/22). Primary technical success, defined as successful deployment and exclusion of the lesion without evidence of type I or III endoleak, was achieved in 20 (91%) patients. One perioperative type-I and two perioperative type-II endoleaks were observed. No ischemic complications (paraplegia, visceral or peripheral ischaemia) or open surgical conversion were recorded. In one patient an 18-month computed tomography-scan showed dilatation of distal thoracic aorta below the graft. Mean follow-up was 34 months (range 5-66 months). Conclusion. Elective endovascular therapy of degenerative thoracic aortic aneurysms seems to be a feasible procedure allowing good results and a low incidence of complications in a mid-term follow up.