Treatment of complex aneurysmal disease with fenestrated and branched stent grafts

To describe our experience of treating juxtarenal (JRAAA's <4mm neck) and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAA's) using fenestrated and branched stent graft technology.

Prospective single centre experience.

Since 2005, 29 fenestrated/branched procedures have been performed. 15 patients are studied with JRAAAs (n=7; median neck length 0mm (IQR 0-3.8)) or TAAAs (type I (n=2), III (n=2), IV (n=4)). ASA grade III in 12/15. Maximum diameter of aneurysm 64 mm (56-74 mm). Aneurysms were excluded using covered stents or branches from the main body to patent visceral vessels (40 target vessels total). Pre-operative and follow-up CT scans (1, 3, and 12 months) were analysed by a single Vascular Interventional Radiologist.

Technical success for cannulation and stenting of target vessels was 98%. In-hospital mortality was 0%. One patient underwent conversion to open repair. Five had major complications including one paraplegia (type III TAAA) with subsequent recovery. Median length of stay was 9 days (IQR 7-18.75). At a median follow-up of 12 months (9-14), CT confirmed 36/37 (97%) target vessels remain patent. Sac size increased >5 mm in one patient only. There were no type I endoleaks, three type II endoleaks (one embolised, two under surveillance) and three type III endoleaks (two successfully treated percutaneously, one aneurysm ruptured 18 months after endografting and died).

In selected patients, fenestrated and branched stents appear to be a safe and effective alternative to surgery for juxtarenal and thoracoabdominal aneurysms. The complication and mortality rates are low. The long-term durability of this procedure, however, needs to be proven.