Reduction of the Aortic Aneurysm Sac Pressure Using a Stent With Venturi Structure: A Numerical Study

Aortic aneurysm is a common disorder which is due to weakening of the aortic wall [1]. Aneurysm rupture is a potentially life threatening complication [2]. The stent graft implantation is one of the potential alternatives for treating patients at high risk for an open surgical procedure. The short-term outcome for stent implantation is promising; however, as with any medical procedure, this has potential limitations such as side branch occlusion, device malfunctions, dilatation at the proximal portion and the so called ‘endoleak’. An endoleak is the persistent blood flow into and within the aneurysmal sac after endovascular repair (i.e. the blood leaks around the endograft which is supposed to have sealed off the entry of blood around it and can be classified into 5 categories[3]). Type I (inadequate seal) and III (graft mechanical failure) endoleaks, characterized by direct communication between systemic and aneurysm sac compartments, pose higher risk of aneurysm rupture and are therefore aggressively treated [4]. Despite advances in the treatment of aneurysm, we believe that there is a still great need for a medical device that can improve patient outcomes.