Purpose: To evaluate the anatomic morphology of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) and compose a classification system to facilitate patient selection for endovascular graft (EVG) repair. Methods: Data on 242 consecutive AAA patients evaluated on a nonemergent basis in a 3.5-year period to July 1996 were prospectively entered into a registry. Patients were examined using sequential intravenous spiral computed tomographic angiography and intraarterial digital subtraction angiography. The data collected and analyzed included: diameters of the supra- and infrarenal aorta, aneurysm, aortoiliac bifurcation, and iliac arteries; lengths of the proximal neck, distal cuff, and aneurysm; degrees of iliac artery tortuosity; and occlusion of the visceral, renal, or iliac arteries. Results: The 242 aneurysms could be easily grouped into three distinctive categories related to the extent of the aneurysmal disease. Type I AAAs (11.2%) had nondilated, thrombus-free infrarenal (15 mm) necks and distal (10 mm) cuffs appropriate for EVG anchoring. In type II and its subgroups (72.3%), a sufficient proximal neck was present, but the aneurysm extended into the iliac arteries; 56% of these were eligible for a bifurcated endograft. In type III (16.5%), a sufficient proximal neck was missing, independent of distal involvement. In all, 51.7% were good EVG candidates based on AAA morphology. Taking into consideration relevant concomitant vascular diseases, proximal iliac kinking, and iliac, renal, or visceral occlusive disease, only 30.2% of the population were potential candidates for an efficient and secure EVG repair using the devices currently available. Conclusions: In contrast to classical open repair, detailed preoperative measurements are recommended for EVG planning. The use of liberal EVG indications may lead to a higher incidence of complications, whereas restrictive morphology-based selection criteria may offer excellent results.
Regional variation exists in patient selection and treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms