Celiac Trunk Coverage in Endovascular Aneurysm Repair

Abstract

Background and Aims: This retrospective study was undertaken to examine the risks associated with obstruction of the coeliac trunk in the process of treating aneurysms with endografting. Material and Methods: 120 patients were treated by endografting for aneurysmal disease. Of these, a subgroup of 9 patients had their celiac trunk covered. If possible, a preoperative angiography was performed to evaluate collateral flow from the superior mesenteric artery. This was considered to predict the risk for ischemia. Results: None of the patients had any severe clinical event of the celiac trunk occlusion or clinical signs of intestinal ischemia. Three patients had transient increase of liver enzymes. Conclusions: In cases where the distal landing zone of the descending thoracic aorta is to short for endografting, covering of the celiac trunk may be an option if no other surgical alternative is apparent. Preoperative angiography to visualise the presence of collateral vessels from the superior mesenteric artery is recommended.