Outcomes of Unilateral Versus Bilateral Use of the Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis for Elective Endovascular Treatment of Aorto-iliac Aneurysms.

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to evaluate outcomes after bilateral implantation of the Gore Excluder Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis (IBE) versus those achieved after unilateral implantation.

METHODS

All consecutive patients electively treated in a single center for aorto-iliac aneurysm using the IBE device between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2018, were reviewed. Early outcome measures were technical success, 30 days or in-hospital mortality, and major adverse events (MAE). Late outcome measures were survival, internal iliac artery (IIA) patency, and freedom from IIA branch instability.

RESULTS

A total of 74 patients (97% males, mean age 74 ± 7 years) were included. Thirteen patients (17%) received bilateral IBE implantation for a total of 85 vessels evaluated. The technical success rate was 97% and was not significantly different between the two groups (p = .32). Two patients died within 30 days, both in the unilateral group (p = 1). No significant differences were seen in the rates of 30 days MAE (p = .10). At one year, the overall survival rate was 95 ± 2% vs 90 ± 3% in the unilateral and bilateral group, respectively (Log-rank = .05). There were no differences in 1-year primary and secondary patency rates between groups (Log-rank = .75 and Log-rank = .34, respectively). Freedom from IIA branch instability at one year was also not significantly different (unilateral: 94 ± 3% vs. bilateral: 82 ± 9%, Log-rank = .22)..

CONCLUSIONS

Bilateral IBE use for elective endovascular treatment of aorto-iliac aneurysms appears safe and feasible and may achieve satisfactory short-term and mid-term outcomes. Bilateral IBE use should be employed judiciously in the context of a comprehensive risk/benefit evaluation.