Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Ruptures in a Well-defined Geographical Area during 2012–2020—A Paradigm Shift

BACKGROUND: The treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm ruptures (rAAA) has changed from open to endovascular repair (rEVAR) during the last decade. The immediate survival benefit after endovascular treatment method is well-known, yet without conclusive support from randomized controlled studies. The aim of this study is to report the survival benefit of rEVAR during the transition between 2 treatment methods and to highlight the in-hospital protocol for rAAA patients, with continuous simulation training and a designated team. METHODS: This study is a retrospective review of rAAA patients diagnosed at Helsinki University Hospital during 2012-2020, including a total of 263 patients. Patients were divided by treatment method, and the primary end point was 30-day mortality. The secondary end points were 90-days mortality, one year mortality, and the length of stay in intensive care. RESULTS: Patients were divided into the rEVAR group (n = 119) and open repair group (rOR n = 119). The turndown rate was 9.5% (n = 25). The 30-day short-term survival favored endovascular treatment (rEVAR 83.2% vs. rOR 68.9%, P = 0.015). The 90-day postdischarge survival was higher in the rEVAR group (rEVAR 80.7% vs. rOR 67.2%, P = 0.026). One-year survival was also higher in the rEVAR group, however with less statistical significance (rEVAR 74.8% vs. rOR 64.7%, P = 0.120). The effect of the revised rAAA protocol was seen in improved survival, when comparing the first 3 years of the cohort (2012-2014) to the last 3 years of the cohort (2018-2020). Survival rates were higher at 30 days, 90 days, and one year in the late cohort (74% vs. 84%, 72% vs. 81%, and 70% vs. 77%). CONCLUSIONS: The rEVAR has its place as a first-line treatment option for most patients and reduces short-term and midterm mortality at least to 1-year follow-up compared to rOR. Dedicated vascular surgeons for rEVAR and continuous simulation training for the operating room staff are key elements of a low turndown and successful rAAA treatment. The use of an occlusive aortic balloon reduces overall mortality in both operative methods.