Analysis of explanted Latecba modular stent-grafts deployed transrenally to repair AAAs with short necks in 29 dogs.

Twenty-nine modular stent-grafts deployed transrenally to repair AAAs with short necks in dogs were harvested at autopsy of the animals after scheduled durations of implantations of 10 days, one month, three months, and six months. Analyses of the explanted devices included non-destructive techniques such as gross observations, X-rays CT scan, IVUS and angioscopy. Further to appropriate dissection, histological investigations were carried out by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy. All the 29 specimens were extensively encapsulated with fibrous tissues but the fibrous capsule was thin in six of them; four capsules were ulcerated. The X-rays confirmed the stability of the devices that were still straight (12), slightly bent (12) or bent (4). The modules were misaligned in only one case. IVUS and angioscopy confirmed the patency of all the stent-grafts with thin internal capsules both proximally and distally with variable capsulation in the mid-section of the grafts. The left renal artery orifices were found to be patent at dissection with no obstruction to flow. The luminal flow surface of the stent-grafts was smooth and glistening proximally and distally containing endothelial like cells and vasa-vasorum. Poor healing was noted in the aneurysm area. Transrenal deployment of this modular stent-graft is feasible and gave excellent results with regard to biofunctionality and biocompatibility. The device proved to be safe and efficient.