Endovascular treatment of descending thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections

Endovascular methods are evolving therapeutic alternatives in the management of the patient with descending thoracic aortic pathology. Patients with descending thoracic aortic aneurysms have been successfully treated with stent grafts with acceptable morbidity and mortality rates. The endovascular catheter techniques of flap fenestration and true lumen stenting also have been employed effectively in the treatment of patients with peripheral arterial ischemic complications or aortic dissection. More comprehensive assessment concerning the real effectiveness of these new treatment methods, however, awaits additional long-term followup in many patients.