Expandable device type III for easy and reliable approximation of dissection layers in sutureless aortic anastomosis. Ex vivo experimental study.

In past years, we developed expandable devices (type I and II) for sutureless aortic anastomosis. We have now further modified the device (type III) incorporating a second expandable ring, external to the main one, which can be operated contrariwise in such a way that the aortic wall (i.e. the dissection layers) is compressed between the two expandable rings, providing full control on both the layers compression pressure and the anastomosis final diameter. The device was evaluated in ex vivo experimental models of swine aortic arch fresh samples; air-tight sealing at increasing endovascular pressures was also evaluated and compared with sealing achieved by standard suturing. Ex vivo data suggest that the present version of the device can be used easily and quickly also in elliptical, asymmetric 'oblique' anastomosis as when concavity arch is involved. Perfect air-tight sealing of the anastomosis was verified at endovascular pressures up to 150 mmHg, while standard suture cannot withstand even minimal endovascular air pressure. Compared to the previous versions, the present device is less bulky and softer, can be used also for concavity arch resection and provides full and standardizable control on dissection layers stable and sealed approximation.