Emergent Endovascular Stent Grafts for Ruptured Aortic Aneurysms

Ruptured aortic aneurysms uniformly require emergent attention. Historically, urgent surgical repair or medical management was the only treatment options. The development of covered stent grafts has introduced a third approach in the care of these critical patients. The clinical status of the patient and local physician expertise drive the treatment modalities in the majority of cases. The goal of therapy in these patients is to stabilize the patient as quickly as possible, establish maximum survival with minimum morbidity, and provide a long lasting result. The endovascular approach has become an acceptable treatment option in an increasing number of patients presenting with ruptured aneurysmal disease of both the descending thoracic and abdominal aorta. Major factors influencing treatment include patient clinical status, characteristics of the aorta, physician preference, institutional experience, and availability of appropriate equipment. Planning, experience, and the ability to improvise effective solutions are keys to the success of the procedure when endovascular techniques are utilized. Three separate cases, requiring intraprocedural improvisation, are presented followed by a review of the literature.