Minimally invasive repair of thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) is rapidly becoming a vital tool in the arsenal of the vascular specialist. Historically, surgical replacement of the aorta has been the "gold standard" for treatment of aortic aneurysms. However, transfemoral placement of an endovascular stent graft, first described by Dr. Parodi and colleagues in 1991, marked the beginning of a new era in treatment of aortic aneurysms. This approach has evolved, allowing success with significantly less morbidity. Over time, if the long-term results continue to prove favorable, endovascular stent graft repair of aortic aneurysms may become the most effective means to treat this life-threatening disease.
