The heart as access to the aorta.
Ernst Weigang1, Helge Weiler, Tanja Frieß
1Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany. ernst.weigang@web.de
Summary
Transapical thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) offers a solution for patients with thoracic aortic disease lacking suitable access vessels for standard TEVAR. This innovative technique expands treatment options for complex aortic pathologies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Vascular Surgery
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is a primary treatment for thoracic aortic pathologies in patients unsuitable for open surgery.
- A subset of patients is ineligible for conventional TEVAR due to inadequate access vessels.
- Limited treatment options exist for patients with challenging anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the transapical thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) technique.
- To demonstrate the feasibility of TEVAR in patients with compromised access vessels.
- To expand the application of endovascular repair for thoracic aortic disease.
Main Methods:
- Description of the transapical TEVAR procedure.
- Surgical technique focusing on access via the cardiac apex.
- Application in patients with anatomical limitations for standard TEVAR.
Main Results:
- Successful implementation of transapical TEVAR in select patients.
- Overcoming the challenge of inadequate iliofemoral access.
- Enabling endovascular repair in previously untreatable cases.
Conclusions:
- Transapical TEVAR is a viable alternative for patients with thoracic aortic pathologies and poor access vessels.
- This technique broadens the applicability of minimally invasive aortic repair.
- Further evaluation of outcomes and long-term results is warranted.
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