Percutaneous creation of acute type-B aortic dissection: an experimental model for endoluminal therapy

To evaluate the feasibility of a percutaneously created type-B aortic dissection as an experimental model for percutaneous therapy. This model was used to evaluate the hemodynamic effects of single-balloon fenestration of the intimal flap.

Acute type-B dissections were created in descending aortae of 15 swine via a femoral (n = 6) or carotid (n = 9) approach. The initial subintimal tear was made with use of a Colapinto needle. The dissections were extended to a predefined position in the aorta. The proximal and distal tears were balloon dilated. The mural flap was balloon fenestrated in six animals, just above the celiac artery. Aortograms were obtained to establish the presence and extent of the dissection. Manometry was performed in both lumina to evaluate the hemodynamics of the dissected aorta and the effects of balloon fenestration in this model. Pathologic specimens were also examined.

Creation of dissection was successful in 11 of 15 animals, with six developing true lumen narrowing (group A). The other five animals (group B) had flow in both lumina without evidence of true lumen narrowing. After the creation of a single-balloon fenestration in the group A swine, the arteriograms revealed no evidence of blood admixture between the true and false lumina, and there was no change in the intravascular pressures. Examination of the explanted aortae showed a more extensive circumferential dissection in group A animals as compared with group B.

The percutaneously created acute type-B aortic dissection is a feasible model for experimentation. The hemodynamics of the aorta did not change after single-balloon fenestration in this model.