Endovascular treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms

Minimally invasive endovascular techniques for the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm have significantly reduced its morbidity compared to that following standard surgical repair. Moreover, patients with extensive comorbid medical illnesses, for whom standard operative repair is contraindicated may be successfully treated using endovascular means. The full limitations and indications for use of endovascular grafts have not yet been fully defined. The effectiveness of commercially fabricated devices is currently being evaluated. This article describes the general principles of use for endovascular devices for the repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms and details the features of the devices currently in use, as well as the typical results.