What is one of the risks associated with older AAA repair stents?

One of the risks associated with older abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair stents is the requirement for a separate section for the contralateral iliac artery. Many earlier stent designs did not incorporate integrated contralateral components, which meant that proper sealing of the stent graft in the iliac arteries required additional adjunctive procedures or devices. This increased complexity can lead to challenges in managing pressures and flow dynamics across the aorta and iliac arteries, potentially resulting in complications such as endoleaks or graft migration.

The evolution of stent graft technology has largely addressed these limitations, but understanding the restrictions of older designs, including the need for separate stenting of the contralateral iliac artery, is crucial for assessing the risks and benefits during AAA repair procedures. This knowledge stresses the importance of updating clinical practices based on advancements in device technology, where newer models may offer improved outcomes with fewer procedural limitations.