Recurrent disconnection of Gore Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis: Case report and review of contributing factors

Introduction

Iliac artery aneurysms (IAAs) which may coexist with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) or appear as isolated lesions, represent around 2 % of intra-abdominal aneurysms. Endovascular repair using iliac branch devices (IBDs) helps preserve internal iliac artery (IIA) perfusion, reducing complications like buttock claudication. However, device displacement and type III endoleaks are significant challenges, especially in tortuous anatomy.

Report

We report two cases of type III endoleak due to displacement of Gore Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis (IBE). In the first case, a 60-year-old male with a left IAA experienced immediate postoperative IBE migration and type III endoleak, necessitating urgent reintervention with bridging stents. In the second, a 74-year-old male treated for a right IAA had recurrent IBE displacements over four years, with repeated type III endoleaks, managed by repeated stenting. Severe iliac tortuosity contributed to both cases.

Discussion

These cases highlight the complexities of IAA endovascular repair with IBDs, particularly the risk of device migration and endoleaks, with severe iliac tortuosity, device properties (e.g. conformability, low friction coefficient), and response to cardiac pulsatility increasing migration risk. Future studies should address these challenges, focusing on device design improvements and predictive imaging techniques, including artificial intelligence, to enhance long-term outcomes in IAA repair.