Combining laparoscopic and endovascular techniques to improve the outcome of aortic endografts. Hybrid techniques

Aortic endografting can be performed with a high initial success rate yet with the need for lifelong surveillance because of numerous long term problems. Among these graft migration, typ II endoleaks and endotension require treatment to prevent abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) rupture. We describe our experience with laparoscopic clipping of lumbar arteries and the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) to prevent Type II leaks as well as with different banding procedures. Several ways to perform active graft fixation are described. Since we believe that active downsizing of the aneurysm reduces some of the intermediate term problems we go a step further and evacuate the thrombus to downsize the aneurysm to prevent longitudinal shrinkage. Laparoscopic techniques can also be used to obtain direct vascular access. This permits insertion of a thoracic endograft directly into the aorta in patients with diseased iliac vessels. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) insertion under laparoscopic navigation without contrast dye in cases with renal insufficiency is described. We describe our technique of total laparoscopic conversion after failed endografting. Future perspectives and preliminary experience with an aortic stapler are discussed.