USE OF A BALLOON-EXPANDABLE INTRAVASCULAR GRAFT IN THE MANAGEMENT OF TYPE-B AORTIC DISSECTION IN AN ANIMAL-MODEL

PURPOSE: To evaluate obliteration of an experimental aortic dissection with a balloon-expandable intravascular stent. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fourteen adult dogs were divided into two groups. In group 1 (n = 6), a thoracoabdominal aortic dissection was surgically created to observ e the natural course of this lesion. In group 2 (n = 8), a balloon-exp andable intraluminal vascular graft was introduced via the femoral art ery in a dissected aorta to try to obliterate the dissection. Angiogra phy was performed postoperatively and again 6 weeks later before the a ortae were explanted for pathologic evaluation. RESULTS: In group 1, p ostoperative aortography depicted evidence of aortic dissection in all animals. Autopsy revealed persisting dissection with reentry tear nea r the celiac axis in five animals. In group 2, placement of a stent at only entry and reentry sites resulted in partial obliteration of the dissection (n = 3). When the entire length of dissected aorta was trea ted, the dissection was completely obliterated (n = 4). CONCLUSION: An aortic dissection can be obliterated with a balloon-expandable stent if the entire dissected aorta is treated.