ABSTRACT In this case series, innovative shape memory polymer (SMP) devices were used to treat the aortic dissection false lumen (FL) of 5 patients. The open-cell, porous structure of expanded SMP contributes to its radiolucency, low radial force, and conformability. The devices were designed to address the unique needs of treating the FL: sufficiently large volume, detachable and stable to minimize migration risk, segmented for flexibility, and with a range of dimensions. All 5 cases were technically successful. A decrease in total aortic diameter, true lumen restoration, and FL reduction were observed through 6-12 month follow-up. The mean change in maximum aorta diameter from preoperative measurements was −5.8±6.9mm (30 days, n=5), −12.0±9.4mm (6 months, n=4), and −9.3±0.8mm (12 months, n=2). No SMP device/procedure-related complications occurred.
Yamanouchi et al. (Fri,) studied this question.