The Benefits of Minimally Invasive Endovascular Procedures 

Endovascular stent grafting has revolutionized aortic surgery, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional open procedures. This innovative technique utilizes a thin catheter to deliver a stent graft to the affected area, requiring only two small incisions in the groin. By avoiding large chest or abdominal incisions, you can significantly reduce patient trauma and recovery time. 

Improved Patient Recovery 

One of the most significant benefits is the dramatically improved recovery trajectory. Patients typically experience: 

• Shorter hospital stays 

• Reduced post-operative pain 

• Faster return to normal activities 

Enhanced Surgical Outcomes 

Minimally invasive approaches also offer notable improvements in surgical outcomes: 

• Smaller incisions, resulting in less scarring 

• Decreased risk of bleeding and infection 

• Reduced trauma to surrounding tissues 

These advantages translate to lower complication rates and improved overall patient satisfaction, making minimally invasive endovascular procedures an increasingly preferred option for vascular interventions. 

Stent Graft Procedure  

The stent graft, a fabric-covered metal scaffold, is carefully positioned to cover the aortic aneurysm. Once in place, it expands to fit snugly within the aorta, creating a new pathway for blood flow. This approach not only reinforces the weakened arterial wall but also maintains crucial blood circulation. 

Considerations When Selecting Stent Grafts for Endovascular Procedures 

Long-Term Effectiveness and Limitations 

When choosing stent grafts for endovascular procedures, it's crucial to consider their long-term effectiveness and potential limitations. Thoracic aortic repair stent grafts typically consist of fabric tubes reinforced with expanding metal stents, providing a balance of flexibility and structural support. However, their performance can vary depending on patient anatomy and specific medical conditions. 

Sizing for Optimal Outcomes 

To achieve optimal outcomes in aortic aneurysm repair, you must carefully consider sizing. It's generally recommended to overestimate landing zone diameters by 10%-20% when selecting stent grafts. This oversizing helps ensure proper sealing and reduces the risk of endoleaks or migration. The BeGraft stent graft system, for instance, offers a range of sizes to accommodate various patient needs. 

Patient-Specific Considerations 

Remember that each patient's anatomy is unique. Factors such as vessel tortuosity, calcification, and thrombus formation can impact stent graft performance. Always conduct a thorough pre-operative assessment to determine the most suitable stent graft for each individual case. 

The Bentley BeGraft is part of the Getz Healthcare Hong Kong Medical product portfolio. For more information, please feel free to contact us. 

Sources: 

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/minimally-invasive-heart-surgery/about/pac-20384895 
• https://ourheartdr.com/vascular-services/thoracic-aortic-aneurysm-taa/about-minimally-invasive-endovascular-repair-with-a-stent-graft-taa/ 
• https://uvahealth.com/services/aortic-artery-disease/stent-grafts 
• https://www.medicaldevice-network.com/sponsored/the-top-three-benefits-of-minimally-invasive-vascular-surgery/ 
• https://www.ucsfhealth.org/treatments/endovascular-surgery 
• https://www.bentley.global/newsitem/36 
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14627223/ 
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7173712/ 
• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1078588417301636 
• https://scholars.mssm.edu/en/publications/selecting-stent-grafts-for-the-endovascular-treatment-of-abdomina-2