What can we learn from explanted endovascular devices?

G. Riepe, C. Heintz, E. Kaiser, N. Chakfé, M. Morlock, M. Delling, H. Imig

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    107 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    Objective: to examine the durability of the Stentor® and Vanguard® endovascular devices in human implants. Methods: the textile covering, the polypropylene ligatures and the stent metal of 34 devices (25 Stentor®, 9 Vanguard®) with a mean duration of implantation of 28.8 ± 16 months was examined by means of stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Results: the polyester textile covering showed gaps along the sutured seam and isolated holes in the fabric. All of the examined polypropylene ligatures were worn, some ruptured, four different types of stent corrosion were classified - pits (100%), bizarre craters (68%), large deficiencies (14%) and fractures (32%). Conclusion: holes in the polyester fabric and frame dislocations are specific for the design of Stentor® and Vanguard® grafts. The early corrosion of the stent metal Nitinol® in these devices is surprising. Until more experience is gained with other devices, we have to be reminded, that the "gold standard" for the long-term durability of artificial vascular grafts is still "today's" conventional graft.

    Original languageEnglish (US)
    Pages (from-to)117-122
    Number of pages6
    JournalEuropean Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
    Volume24
    Issue number2
    DOIs
    StatePublished - Aug 2002

    Keywords

    • Corrosion
    • Endovascular graft
    • Long-term durability
    • Nitinol

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Surgery
    • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

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