Stent Grafts

Stent grafts are referred to as endovascular grafting and are a minimally invasive method of treating aortic aneurysms. The location and shape of the aneurysm will help decide which method is the best.

Endovascular grafting can be used instead of open aneurysm repair to prevent the surgical opening of the chest and abdomen. It is also called endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair, and fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR), depending on the type of repair being considered.

During endovascular surgery, catheters (long thin tubes) are used to repair an aorta from the inside and then place fabric tubes that are supported with metal wire stents (also called a scaffold). The stent with the liner will reinforce weak spots in the aorta, but endovascular grafting can only be used if the aneurysm is not ruptured and is bigger than 5 centimeters in size. Placing a stent reduces the risk of aneurysm complications, such as growing in size or rupturing.

Stent grafts can be done with a mild sedative and a local anesthetic or under general anesthesia where the patient is put to sleep. Small incisions are made in the groin, and a catheter is inserted. The catheter is advanced to the area of the aneurysm, and the stent graph is placed in the weak spot using x-ray guidance. The graph is opened up within the aorta and attached with metal hooks instead of sutures (stitches). The procedure takes 2 to 3 hours to complete.