This article compares two approaches side by side to clarify how they differ in principle and practice. Repair strategy depends on the segment involved, with distinct considerations for the abdominal aorta below the kidneys and the thoracic aorta in the chest. As a medical device manufacturer, INVAMED develops technologies in this area; the information here is educational and not medical advice.
Background: Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection Endovascular Repair
An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal, progressive dilation of the aorta that carries a risk of rupture as it enlarges, while an aortic dissection is a tear within the wall that separates its layers. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) treats infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms using bifurcated modular endografts that exclude the aneurysm sac from circulation. Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) treats thoracic aortic aneurysms with a stent graft placed in the descending thoracic aorta.
TEVAR vs Open thoracic surgery: Key Differences
TEVAR treats descending thoracic aortic disease with a stent graft placed endovascularly, while open thoracic surgery involves a chest incision and direct graft replacement. The endovascular route generally reduces perioperative burden, but landing-zone anatomy near the arch branches can limit its applicability. Both approaches aim to prevent rupture or manage a dissection, differing in invasiveness and follow-up requirements. Selection is made by the clinical team according to lesion location and patient factors.
How INVAMED Supports Both Approaches
INVAMED's aortic portfolio centers on excluding or remodeling diseased aortic segments, with a distinctive flow-modulating option alongside conventional stent grafts. Graft and stent diameter and length ranges are detailed in product documentation, and procurement teams should confirm local registration and indication status. The STENA MFM is specified as a self-expanding 3D-braided five-layer superalloy device with a micro-porous mesh engineered for laminar flow and conformability in complex anatomy.
Key Considerations
- Branch-vessel involvement may steer selection toward branch-preserving strategies such as the multilayer flow modulator.
- Lifelong imaging surveillance is a standard requirement after endovascular repair to detect endoleak or migration.
- Accurate, calibrated cross-sectional imaging is essential for sizing, oversizing, and defining adequate sealing zones before an endovascular repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the INVAMED flow modulator called?
INVAMED's flow-modulating aortic device is the STENA Aortic Multi-Layer Flow Modulator, a self-expanding multilayer braided scaffold intended to preserve branch vessels.
Does the flow modulator cover branch vessels?
INVAMED describes the STENA MFM as branch-preserving, designed to modulate blood flow without covering branch vessels; suitability is determined by the clinician.
What is the difference between EVAR and TEVAR?
EVAR treats infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms with bifurcated modular endografts, while TEVAR treats thoracic aortic aneurysms with a stent graft in the descending thoracic aorta.
About INVAMED
Device availability and regulatory status vary by country. Please contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.
Clinical and Technical Context
Repair strategy depends on the segment involved, with distinct considerations for the abdominal aorta below the kidneys and the thoracic aorta in the chest. An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal, progressive dilation of the aorta that carries a risk of rupture as it enlarges, while an aortic dissection is a tear within the wall that separates its layers. Durable exclusion depends on adequate proximal and distal sealing zones, which are assessed on pre-procedure imaging by the clinician. Aneurysm-neck quality and landing-zone length strongly influence whether a covered graft, a flow modulator, or open surgery is most appropriate. Endovascular repair reaches the aorta through the femoral arteries and deploys a device from inside the vessel, avoiding a large open incision in appropriately selected patients. Suitability for a flow-modulating approach is highly anatomy-dependent and is determined by the vascular specialist. Landing-zone length and proximity to arch branch vessels are key planning factors evaluated by the operator. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) treats infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms using bifurcated modular endografts that exclude the aneurysm sac from circulation.
Related on INVAMED
- Aortic Aneurysm & Dissection Repair — product category
- What is an endoleak and what are the types?
- STENA Aortic Multi-Layer Flow Modulator (MFM): Features, Specifications and Clinical Role
- How long is recovery after endovascular aneurysm repair?
Important Disclaimer
This article is intended for general educational and technical information about medical device technologies. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment recommendation, and it does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Any decision about diagnosis or treatment should be made by a licensed clinician based on an individual assessment. INVAMED devices are intended for use by trained healthcare professionals in accordance with the applicable Instructions for Use (IFU) and local regulatory approvals. Product availability and indications vary by country.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.