The use of stent grafts for the treatment of aneurysms and dissections of the thoracic aorta: a single centre experience.
OBJECTIVE
To review the results of stent graft treatment for diseases of the thoracic aorta.


METHODS
A retrospective study of the results of thoracic stent graft procedures in a single centre.


METHODS
The results of 30 procedures performed in 24 patients were analysed. Eleven patients had aneurysmal dilatation of the descending thoracic aorta (>5.5 cm), nine patients had complicated type B dissection, three had penetrating ulcers and one had a traumatic pseudoaneurysm. Imaging follow-up consisted of CT scans performed at one, three, six and 12 months following the procedure and annually thereafter.


RESULTS
One technical failure occurred due to a ruptured external iliac artery. There were no other immediate failures. The primary technical success rate was 83%. The 30-day procedural and patient mortality rates were 7 and 8%, respectively. No neurological complications occurred. Seven patients had the subclavian artery covered without complications. Secondary intervention was required in 21%. During the follow-up period (mean 11 months, range 1-48 months.) there were five deaths, two of which were related to stent graft infection.


CONCLUSIONS
Thoracic stent grafts offer a realistic alternative to surgery.
Matravers
P
P
St Georges Hospital, Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0QT, UK.
Morgan
R
R
Belli
A
A
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000784:Aortic Dissection / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D017541:Aneurysm, False / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D017545:Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D019917:Blood Vessel Prosthesis Implantation; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D015607:Stents; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014456:Ulcer / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery