The Impact of Target Vessel Anatomy and Bridging Stent Geometry on Branched Endovascular Aortic Repair Outcomes

Abstract

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of target vessel anatomy and bridging stent geometry on target vessel instability in branched endovascular aortic repair (B-EVAR).

Methods

This retrospective, single centre cohort study included all consecutive B-EVARs performed between September 2018 and December 2022 for thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) or complex abdominal aortic aneurysm (CAAA). The primary endpoints were target vessel instability and related re-interventions at 12 months. Secondary endpoints were 30 day results, including target vessel instability and re-interventions. Target vessel instability analysis consisted of assessment of target vessel anatomy, including diameter, aortic trunk to branch angle, and tortuosity. Post-operative parameters included change of clock position/horizontal misalignment, bridging length (gap), sealing length, tortuosity, post-stenting angle, and oversizing ratio.

Results

A total of 69 patients (TAAA: n = 56, 81%; CAAA: n = 13, 19%) and 271 (133 visceral and 138 renal) target vessels were included. The cumulative incidence of target vessel instability was 4.8%, 6.4%, and 7.9% at one, two, and three years, respectively. In the renal target vessel group, vessel diameter ≤ 4 mm (hazard ratio [HR] 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.116 – 2.54; p = .022) and a bridging length ≥ 25 mm (HR 1.320, 95% CI 1.066 – 1.636; p = .011) were associated with increased target vessel instability. In visceral vessels, a change in clock position/horizontal misalignment ≥ 70 minutes (HR 1.072, 95% CI 1.026 – 1.121; p = .002) showed a significant association with target vessel instability.

Conclusion

Target vessel diameter, bridging length (gap), and horizontal misalignment seemed to be associated with adverse target vessel outcomes. This may be solved with more customised endograft solutions to reduce the negative impact of the latter parameter.