Internal Iliac Aneurysm Repair Outcomes Using a Modification of the Iliac Branch Graft

Iliac branch grafts (IBGs) are a validated option for the treatment of aorto-iliac aneurysms preserving internal iliac artery (IIA) flow. IIA aneurysm (IIAA) is a relative contraindication to IBG placement. The goal of this study was to review experience in managing aorto-iliac aneurysms with concomitant IIAAs with extension of the IIA branch stent graft into the superior gluteal artery (SGA).

This retrospective study between May 2009 and November 2014 includes consecutive patients who underwent placement of an IBG (Cook, Bloomington, IN, USA) with extension of the internal iliac component of the branch stent graft into the SGA because of aneurysmal IIA (>15 mm). The stent grafts used were Viabahn (Gore, Karlsruhe, Germany), Fluency (Bard, Flagstaff, AZ, USA), or iCast (Atrium, Hudson, NH, USA) proximally. Imaging follow up was with computed tomography angiography (CTA) within 30 days of device insertion and then annually.

The procedure was performed on 15 patients with a mean age of 76.8 years (SD 6.1 years). Twenty IIAAs were treated with a mean IIA and common iliac artery (CIA) diameter of 33 mm (SD 13 mm) and 35 mm (SD 11 mm) respectively. Technical success rate was 100%. One patient who underwent simultaneous IBG and three vessel fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair died of mesenteric ischemia 2 days after the procedure. Mean imaging follow up with CTA was 18.3 months (SD 15.1 months). Primary patency of the SGA stent grafts was 100%. There was one case of type II endoleak. All patients were free from buttock claudication at follow up (mean: 19.7 months). Two patients who had IIA embolization contralateral to the IBG placement suffered from unilateral lower limb monoparesis.

Extension of the internal iliac component of IBGs into the SGA for distal seal is feasible and safe in the endovascular treatment of aorto-iliac aneurysms with concomitant IIAs. Long-term results are needed to further validate this technique.