The endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm: an update analysis of structural failure modes of endovascular stent grafts.

Overview

Over the last decade, more than 25,000 endovascular stent grafts have been used to treat aortic aneurysms. Although results have been promising thus far, problems with endoleaks, material failure, device migration, and aneurysm rupture continue to be reported. Improvements in device material and design have contributed to the rapid growth and utility of these devices; however, material failure still remains a concerning mode for potential procedure failure. A review of the authors'experience with material failure and a review of the literature was conducted to help understand and comprehend the magnitude of this problem and try to determine its clinical significance.