Transcatheter Embolization of Type I Endoleaks Associated With Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair Using Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol Copolymer

To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and outcome of transcatheter embolization using ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) of type I endoleaks associated with endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair.

Retrospective chart review was performed to identify 8 consecutive patients who had undergone EVOH embolization for type I endoleaks between 2012 and 2015. The primary approach used to access the endoleak was the perigraft technique, where the endoleak itself is catheterized at the anastomotic site.

Six type Ia and 2 type Ib endoleaks were treated. In 2 patients, a direct transabdominal approach was used to access the endoleak because it was inaccessible via the perigraft approach. Coils were used in addition to EVOH in 5 cases. Residual endoleak was noted in 1 case, whereas 2 patients developed a recurrent type I endoleak during follow-up. No EVOH complications were observed. The 5 remaining patients demonstrated freedom from endoleak and reintervention at a mean follow-up of 6.9 months.

Type I endoleaks can be safely and effectively treated by embolotherapy with EVOH. Larger endoleaks resulting from grossly undersized endografts appear to be unsuitable for EVOH embolization.