Lifelong imaging surveillance using computed tomographic angiography, magnetic resonance angiography, ultrasonography, and digital subtraction angiography is critical for detecting endoleaks post-EVAR.
Lifelong imaging surveillance using various modalities is critical for detecting endoleaks and determining long-term stent-graft performance after EVAR.
Endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) is evolving into a viable alternative to open surgical repair for many patients with abdominal and thoracic aortic aneurysms. Endoleak development is a complication of EVAR and represents one of the limitations of this procedure. Endoleaks represent blood flow outside the stent-graft lumen but within the aneurysm sac. Lifelong imaging surveillance of patients after EVAR is critical to detect endoleaks for the patient's benefit and to determine the long-term performance of the stent-graft. Although computed tomographic angiography is the most commonly used examination for imaging surveillance, magnetic resonance angiography, ultrasonography, and digital subtraction angiography all have a role in endoleak detection and management. This review will focus on imaging techniques used for endoleak detection and the role imaging surveillance plays in the overall care of the post-EVAR patient.
Stavropoulos et al. (Fri,) conducted a review in Endoleaks after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR). Imaging surveillance techniques (CTA, MRA, ultrasonography, DSA) was evaluated. Lifelong imaging surveillance using computed tomographic angiography, magnetic resonance angiography, ultrasonography, and digital subtraction angiography is critical for detecting endoleaks post-EVAR.