Multilayer stent in the treatment of popliteal artery aneurysms

Endovascular repair of popliteal artery aneurysms is an emerging treatment in high risk surgical patients. The location in a functionally demanding anatomical area creates limitations in terms of endograft patency. Technological advancements have been conscripted in an effort to circumvent such constraints. The multilayer stent technology effects through haemodynamic modulation. We used the multilayer stent to treat 6 asymptomatic popliteal artery aneurysms in 3 patients. All procedures were successfully accomplished without any complications. Over a mean follow up period of 9 months, thrombosis occurred in two limbs, and blood flow was restored with thrombolysis, achieving a primary and secondary patency rate at 6 months of 67 % and 100 %, respectively. Partial or complete thrombosis of the aneurysm sac was achieved in all aneurysms. Even though the use of the multilayer stent in popliteal artery aneurysms was safe in the short term, our experience showed that close surveillance is required.