Endovascular Aortic Graft Failure
Endovascular Aortic Graft Failure
What is endovascular aortic graft failure?
Endovascular aortic graft failure is the malfunction or failure of an endovascular stent graft that has been implanted in the aorta, typically to treat an aortic aneurysm. This can occur due to a variety of factors such as device movement, endoleaks, structural failure, and infection.
The causes of endovascular aortic graft failure can include:
- Device Migration: The stent graft can move from its original position, leading to its failure.
- Endoleaks: Leaks can develop around the edges of the stent graft, causing blood to bypass the graft and continue flowing through the aneurysm.
- Structural Failure: The stent graft can break or collapse, leading to its failure.
- Infection: An infection can develop at the site of the stent graft, causing inflammation and weakening the device.
- Thrombosis: Blood clots can form inside the stent graft, obstructing blood flow and leading to its failure.
- Aneurysm growth: The aneurysm can continue to grow despite the stent graft, causing it to fail.
- Device corrosion: The stent graft can corrode over time, leading to its failure.
Appointment Information
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What are the symptoms of endovascular aortic graft failure?
The symptoms of endovascular aortic graft failure can include:
- Pain or discomfort in the abdomen or back
- Pulsating mass in the abdomen
- Fever or elevated body temperature
- Rapid heartbeat or changes in heart rate
- Weakness or fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of consciousness
It is important to note that some people with endovascular graft failure may not experience any symptoms, while others may experience severe symptoms that can be life-threatening. If you suspect that you have aortic endovascular graft failure, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
How is endovascular aortic graft failure diagnosed?
Diagnosis of endovascular aortic graft failure typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Some common diagnostic tests for aortic endovascular graft infection include:
- Blood tests: To check for signs of infection, including elevated white blood cell count or elevated levels of C-reactive protein.
- Imaging tests: Such as CT scans, MRI scans, and ultrasound to visualize the stent graft and look for signs of infection or structural failure.
- Angiography: This test involves injecting a contrast agent into the blood vessels and taking X-rays to visualize the flow of blood and look for signs of endoleaks, migration, or other issues.
- Culture and sensitivity tests: If a local infection is suspected, a sample of the infected tissue or fluid may be taken and tested to determine the type of bacteria causing the infection and which antibiotics would be most effective.
How is endovascular aortic graft failure treated?
The treatment depends upon the specific cause and the extent of the failure. Some common treatment options include:
Endovascular revision
In some cases, the stent graft can be revised or repositioned to address the cause of the failure. This can involve placing additional stents or using endovascular devices to treat endoleaks or address other issues. If endovascular revision is not possible or effective, open surgical repair may be required. This involves making an incision in the abdomen or chest to directly access and repair the affected area.
Observation
In some cases, particularly for small or asymptomatic endoleaks, close monitoring and observation may be appropriate, with intervention only when if necessary. It is important to work closely with your doctor to determine the best treatment approach based on the specific cause and extent of the aortic endovascular graft failure, as well as individual medical history and risk factors. In some cases, multiple treatments may be required to effectively address the failure.
Locations
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Cardiac Surgery Clinic | Frankel Cardiovascular Center 1425 E Ann St
Floor 3 Reception C
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5856Get Directions -
Vascular Surgery Clinic | Frankel Cardiovascular Center 1425 E Ann St
Floor 3 Reception B
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5856Get Directions
Doctors
Robert John Beaulieu, MD
Clinical Associate Professor
Vascular Surgery
Frank Michael Davis, MD
Assistant Professor
Vascular Surgery
Jonathan Lee Eliason, MD
Professor
Vascular Surgery, Surgery
Shinichi Fukuhara, MD
Clinical Assistant Professor
Thoracic Surgery, Surgery
Barbara Hamilton, MD, MS
Clinical Assistant Professor
Thoracic Surgery, Cardiac Surgery
Minhajuddin Syad Khaja, MD
Clinical Professor
Vascular & Interventional Radiology, Diagnostic Radiology, Interventional Radiology & Diagnostic Radiology
Xhorlina Marko, MD
Clinical Assistant Professor
Vascular & Interventional Radiology, Diagnostic Radiology
Nicholas Harold Osborne, MD
Associate Professor
Vascular Surgery, Surgery
Nimesh Anantlal Patel, MD
Clinical Assistant Professor
Vascular Surgery, Surgery
William McKay Sherk, MD
Clinical Assistant Professor
Vascular & Interventional Radiology, Diagnostic Radiology
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