Repair of bilateral common iliac artery aneurysm by potentially reversible, unilateral internal iliac artery embolisation followed by endovascular Y-stenting.

Bilateral common iliac artery (CIA) aneurysms are rare, but more frequently symptomatic than abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). In elderly patients with coexisting medical problems, transluminal and/or endovascular procedures are preferred to avoid the risk of morbidity and mortality associated with further general anesthesia and surgery. However, bilateral internal iliac artery (IIA) occlusion during endovascular repair might be associated with significant morbidity, including gluteal claudicatio, and ischemia of the sigmoid colon and perineum. In the presented case report we describe the successful repair of bilateral CIA aneurysms by a total transluminal and endovascular approach. The potentially reversible embolisation of the less diseased IIA with detachable latex balloons preceded the implantation of a bilateral endovascular Y-stent. Both CIA aneurysms were successfully excluded from circulation. No complications were noted and the patient could be discharged four days after surgery. Probationary detachable balloon embolisation of the IIA followed by implantation of an endovascular bifurcated stentgraft is a safe technique. It allows clinical monitoring of acute ischemic complications before bilateral IIA occlusion by the stentgraft. In comparison to coil embolisation these balloons may be easier to remove if for instance, an external-internal iliac artery bypass is needed. Percutaneous balloon puncture might be another option to reverse acute ischemia.