What Is Endovascular Stent Grafting? Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm (TAA)

Overview

The word endovascular refers to the area inside of a blood vessel such as the aorta. Endovascular stent grafting, or endovascular aortic repair (EVAR), is a form of treatment for thoracic aortic aneurysms. Open surgery is another option to treat thoracic aortic aneurysm. Endovascular stent grafting uses a device called an endovascular stent graft.

The endovascular stent graft is a synthetic fabric tube (graft) supported by a metal scaffold (stent). During endovascular stent grafting the endovascular stent graft is placed inside the thoracic aorta using a long, thin, soft, plastic tube called a delivery catheter.

The endovascular stent is placed inside of the thoracic aorta to help reinforce the blood vessel.

Here is how the endovascular stent graft is placed in your thoracic aorta:

1. The catheter is inserted into an artery in the leg near the groin
2. Using advanced imaging methods, the surgeon guides the catheter carrying the stent graft to the area of the aneurysm inside the aorta
3. Once the stent graft is in position, the surgeon deploys it into place and removes the catheter

Comparing Endovascular and Open Surgery

Endovascular stent grafting and open surgery grafting are both done to reinforce the blood vessel.

Endovascular Surgery

Endovascular stent grafting may be performed under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the patient. Endovascular stent grafting is considered less invasive than open surgery, because the endovascular stent graft is put into place without open-chest surgery or removing part of the aorta.