Aortic Dissection Following Endovascular Aneurysm Repair – A Systematic Review and Management Algorithm

Background Aortic dissection following endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) may be iatrogenic or a de-novo event. This study aims to systematically review all cases of dissection following EVAR to identify complications specific to each scenario and develop a management algorithm depending on the clinical presentation. Methods A comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL databases was performed for all studies relating to dissection following EVAR or fenestrated/branched EVAR (F/BrEVAR). Data collected included timing (differentiating iatrogenic and de-novo events), entry tear location, endograft involved, complications, management, and subsequent outcomes. Due to limited data availability, descriptive data was collected and outcomes compared depending on dissection type and timing. Risk of bias was assessed using a standardised tool for case reports. Results 46 patients in 37 studies were included. Complications included endograft compression (52.2%), endoleak (15.2%), and rupture (13.0%). Compression was less likely in endografts with proximal fixation (41.9%), compared to those without (69.2%). Type A dissection after EVAR required cardiac surgery with a high mortality (20.0%). In Type B dissection, 2 cases were diagnosed intra-operatively during F/BrEVAR, 1 died. 8 were diagnosed <4 weeks post-operatively, all managed medically with no complications or mortality. 31 were diagnosed >4 weeks, with mortality of 25.8% and high rates of endograft compression (58.1%), endoleak (16.1%), and rupture (19.4%). Conclusion Aortic dissection following EVAR may cause endograft compression, endoleak, or rupture, with significant mortality. Complications are more frequent following Type A dissection and late Type B dissection. Early Type B dissection may be amenable to medical management.