Midterm follow-up of inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysms following endovascular repair

The role of endovascular therapy in the management of inflammatory aneurysms of the infrarenal abdominal aorta has been controversial. Review of our endovascular database identified six patients who have undergone treatment for preoperatively diagnosed inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysms. Outcomes measured were primary success of the procedure, variation in computed tomographic (CT) scan-defined perianeurysmal fibrosis, change in aneurysm size, development of endoleak, requirement of reintervention, aneurysm rupture, and progression or resolution of symptoms. At a median follow-up of 20 months (range 4-56 months), endovascular repair has been successful in all six patients. All patients demonstrated CT reduction of perianeurysmal fibrosis, with a median of 47% absolute reduction (range 33-69%, p = 0.014). All patients had aneurysm sac shrinkage, with a mean of 41% (range 6-86%, p = 0.04). There were no aneurysm ruptures or persistent endoleaks. Of the three patients who presented with abdominal or back pain, all are now symptom-free. One patient required reintervention for limb thrombosis of a bifurcated graft after 2 years. In conclusion, endovascular treatment of an inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysm is safe and effective and the treatment of choice in anatomically suitable patients.