Endovascular Stent Graft

What is an Endovascular Stent Graft?

The Endovascular Stent Graft is made up of a fabric tube that is primarily supported by a stent which is composed of a mesh made of metal. The mesh or the stents are also known as scaffolds. These are placed at a specific location within the body through the use of long catheters. This graft primarily used to provide a lesser invasive treatment for cases involving aneurysms.

The procedure is done by the physician making a small incision usually along the groin area where the long tube catheter is about to be inserted. The catheter will then function as a guide wire for the stent to be properly placed in the specific location of the aneurysm. Upon reaching the point of aneurysm, the stent graft is released and secured in position. The stent graft is used in providing proper support and alignment to the affected blood vessel thus strengthening it in general. The stent graph facilitates the free flow of blood through the arteries without having to exert excessive pressure to the aneurysm. Angiography will also be done using a contrast dye injected through the bloodstream. This procedure will ensure the correct placement of the stent.

Aneurysms are described as balloon like structures along the blood vessels. These are usually brought about by consistent increase in blood pressure causing the wall of the blood vessel to enlarge and eventually bulge resembling that of a balloon. If this persists without proper treatment, there is a great risk for the total rupture of the bulging vessel wall which may lead to hemorrhage and leading to shock and even death later on. This tragic rupture of the bulging blood vessel wall can be prevented through the Endovascular Stent Graft.

Who can undergo Endovascular Stent Graft placement?

Like what has been previously stated, Endovascular Stent Grafting is indicated for patients with aneurysms, specifically those located in the aortic area. Patients who are at high risk for other complications due to other underlying disease conditions may be recommended to use Endovascular Stent Grafting for treatment because it is definitely less invasive as compared to the usual surgical treatment. The size and shape of the aneurysm can also determine whether you can be a candidate for the grafting procedure. If the aneurysm is large and has a shape that facilitates proper placement of the stent in the aortic area, the procedure can be recommended to the patient. This can also be used for aneurysms that are found in other areas of the body as long as the physician is able to assess that stent grafting can be effectively used in the affected area.

Recovery After Endovascular Stent Grafting

After undergoing the said procedure, you will be asked to stay for around three days at the hospital for proper monitoring of your stent graft. You will also be advised to refrain from carrying heavy objects and even perform some strenuous activities like driving for several weeks after the procedure to prevent any possible complication like dislodgement of the stent. You will also have to check your incision site from time to time and make sure that they are clean and free from any signs of infection. A few months from the procedure, you will have to undergo some imaging tests to ensure that the stent graft is still in its proper placement. Further imaging tests will then have to follow after a year of stent placement to observe not only the graft but most importantly the condition of the aneurysm.