In Reply to: Re: Case 0298_11--Infrarenal abdominal aortic traumatic rupture: Treatment with endoluminal covered stent posted by Scott Trerotola on February 11, 1998 at 10:44:53:
It is nice to have these devices on the shelf in different widths and lengths as we are one of the sites for the FDA trial for occlusive disease. It simplifies the use for applications like trauma. All one has to do is to make a few phone calls and the road is clear.
I have used this device in 5 people and never encountered a problem. Technically, it is very easy to use. It does not shorten as much compared to regular Wallstents. One has to be careful re. crossing sidebranches. We have follow-up up to 6 months and there are no thromboses so far.
I agree with your caution re. the safety. I am not sure why you are pessimistic about the long term outlook in this women. It is a conduit in a large artery with excellent flow. From the vascular surgery literature we know that these do well. What kind of trouble do you anticipate she may get into?