Endovascular repair of the decending thoracic aortaThe majority of aneurysms of the descending thoracic aorta can be repaired using endovascular techniques. Duke offers expertise in this emerging area.

In addition, we are currently participating in numerous major thoracic endovascular stent graft clinical trials investigating the use of these techniques in high-risk patients with other conditions of the descending thoracic aorta requiring surgical therapy such as type B aortic dissection and blunt traumatic injury of the aorta.

All of these procedures are performed by a team consisting of both cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons as well as cardiac anesthesiologists with experience in this area.

This minimally invasive procedure has decreased the mortality and major complication rates associated with open repair. It allows the majority of patients to be discharged within one or two days, with return to full activity in several weeks.