Treatment of internal iliac artery aneurysms: single-centre experience

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study was to analyse the short-term results of treatment of internal iliac artery aneurysms (IIAA).

METHODS: In a prospective single-centre cohort study all patients with IIAA (symptomatic or maximal diameter >/=30 mm) were evaluated for endovascular repair, which included coil embolization of the run-off vessels and coverage of the orifice of the IIAA with a stent graft. Open repair was performed with aneurysm excision or aneurysmorrhaphy. Outcome criteria were technical and clinical success and complications of treatment.

RESULTS: In a period of 40 months 11 patients underwent operation for 12 IIAA. Nine aneurysms were repaired endovascularly and three with open repair. Coil embolization was routinely performed in all cases. At a median follow up of 18 months, technical and clinical success was 100%. Major complications included two early limb thromboses, a contrast-agent-induced nephropathy, and an intraoperative ureteric injury.

CONCLUSION: Despite the limited number of patients, the present series, with good short-term results, further supports the trend towards endovascular repair of suitable IIAA.