Collapse of a stent-graft following treatment of a traumatic thoracic aortic rupture.

PURPOSE

To report a collapsed stent-graft used to treat a traumatic aortic rupture.

CASE REPORT

A Gore TAG stent-graft was placed in a 20-year-old man with multiple injuries. Postimplantation computed tomographic angiography (CTA) demonstrated no contrast extravasation and total exclusion of the traumatic rupture. Routine CTA 3 months after implantation revealed a collapsed stent-graft located in the outer curve of the distal aortic arch. A Talent stent-graft was placed successfully within the collapsed prosthesis. Postimplantation CTA demonstrated no contrast extravasation and good apposition of the endograft to the aortic wall. At 6 months, the repair remains secure; there is no sign of graft collapse or endoleak.

CONCLUSIONS

Collapse of stent-grafts can occur after treatment for traumatic aortic ruptures; endovascular methods can be used to restore a satisfactory luminal contour.