Endovascular stent-graft placement in thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections
Summary
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has issued full guidance to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on endovascular stent-graft placement in thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections.
Description
This procedure is used to treat aneurysms of the descending aorta within the thorax. Weakening of the wall of the aorta, due to atheroma, high blood pressure, or, less commonly, infection, can lead to an aneurysm. Aneurysms may rupture, causing internal bleeding.
Aneurysms of the thoracic aorta are potentially serious. Untreated, five year survival is 10 to 15%. Ruptured thoracic aneurysm is almost always fatal, even with treatment.
Aneurysms of the thoracic aorta are relatively uncommon. Conventional surgery involves replacing the affected part of the aorta with a graft. The operation usually takes several hours and postoperative recovery can be prolonged.
Stenting involves placing a tube inside the aorta under X-ray control. Specialized catheters and wires are used to introduce the stent, most commonly through the femoral artery.
OPCS code:
Details
Surgical procedures
Vascular Surgical Society of Great Britain and Ireland
British Society of Interventional Radiology
Contact details:
(for general enquiries or comments)
Interventional Procedures Programme
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence
MidCity Place
71 High Holborn
London
WC1V 6NA
