Initial Experiences and Short Term Results Using a Remote Aneurysm Sac Pressure Sensor

Objectives: Endovascular abdominal aneurysm repair (EVAR) is performed to exclude the aneurysm sac, lower intrasac pressure, and reduce rupture risk. Directly measuring the aneurysm sac pressure is possible using a remote pressure sensor. We report our initial experience and short term results placing these sensors.
Methods: Thirty one patients successfully had Endosure™ remote pressure sensors placed at the time of EVAR. Pre-exclusion and post-exclusion readings were obtained in the operating room. Follow up readings were obtained at the surgeon’s office one and six months after surgery.
Results: Pulse pressure readings pre and post exclusion averaged 64.5 and 27.2, respectively, which equals an average 58% decrease. The endotension index also dropped by an average of 62% (1.2 vs. 0.45) following exclusion. One month readings have been obtained in 19 patients, and the average pressure and endotension index readings have declined (24.2 and 0.37, respectively). Six month readings in four patients have shown a continual decline in pressure with an average reading of 11. Two patients had a mild elevation of pressure, one at three and one at six months. Both were found to have a type II leak.
Conclusions: It is feasible to place pressure sensors at the time of EVAR. Pressure in the sac initially dropped dramatically and decrease over time. Sensors add little time to EVAR procedure, appear to be sensitive to pressures in the sac and detect endoleaks. Longer follow up is needed to determine if pressure sensors can reduce CT surveillance in the future.