| Abstract: | Objective: To assess the operation indications, preoperative evaluation, technique essential and clinical prospective of Endovascular Graft Exclusion for thoracic aortic dissection. Methods: Since September 1998, Endovascular Graft Exclusion for thoracic aortic dissection has been performed on 10 patients. Graft was constructed from self-expanding Z-stents covered with a woven Dacron polyester fabric graft. Ged dimensions were determined ftom spiral computed tomographic scans. All operations were performed under DSA guidance. Results: There was one early death resulting from endoleaks. Proedures in the other 9 patients succeeded. No complications such as myocardial infarction, lung failure, kidney failureand paralysis that commonly occurred ther conventional operations were obsered. Immediate thrombosis in false lumen was achieved in 6 patients, and late thrombosis occurred in 3 patients. Mean follow-up duration was 3 months, the aneurysmal diameter was decreased obviously. Conclusion: These early results support the hypothesis that Endovascular Graft Exclusion may be a safe and durable treatment for selected patients with theracic aortic dissection. Endoleak may allow continued aneurysmal expansion and rupture. Further follow-up is necessary to evaluate the true long-term effectiveness of this procedure. |
