In Vivo Crushing of an Aortic Stent Enables Endovascular Repair of a Large Infrarenal Aortic Pseudoaneurysm

Purpose: To report an unusual approach to endovascular exclusion of a large aortic pseudoaneurysm.

Methods And Results: A 63-year-old male had an unsuccessful endovascular repair of an aortic anastomotic pseudoaneurysm that left an expanded, uncovered Palmaz stent lying obliquely within the aorta. After nearly 3 years, the pseudoaneurysm enlarged to 7 cm, and the patient became symptomatic. Repair of the pseudoaneurysm was accomplished by crushing the indwelling stent to allow placement of a stent-graft.

Conclusions: Malpositioned stents that are hindering an endoluminal procedure may be crushed against the arterial wall in vivo to facilitate passage of endovascular instruments or devices.