Below is an educational, technical answer to a question many patients and clinicians ask. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) treats infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms using bifurcated modular endografts that exclude the aneurysm sac from circulation. 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
Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) treats thoracic aortic aneurysms with a stent graft placed in the descending thoracic aorta. 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. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) treats infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms using bifurcated modular endografts that exclude the aneurysm sac from circulation.
How long does an aortic stent graft last?
An aortic stent graft is a permanent implant intended to exclude the aneurysm over the long term. Durability depends on continued adequate sealing and the absence of significant endoleak or component migration, which is why surveillance is lifelong. Device performance descriptions from the manufacturer reflect design intent rather than a guaranteed lifespan. Long-term expectations should be discussed individually with the vascular specialist.
What This Means in Practice
Accurate, calibrated cross-sectional imaging is essential for sizing, oversizing, and defining adequate sealing zones before an endovascular repair. Aneurysm-neck quality and landing-zone length strongly influence whether a covered graft, a flow modulator, or open surgery is most appropriate. Manufacturer descriptions of flow modulation and radial support reflect design intent rather than guaranteed clinical outcomes.
Key Considerations
- All INVAMED aortic devices are intended for use by trained vascular specialists under imaging guidance and per the IFU.
- Manufacturer descriptions of flow modulation and radial support reflect design intent rather than guaranteed clinical outcomes.
- Aneurysm-neck quality and landing-zone length strongly influence whether a covered graft, a flow modulator, or open surgery is most appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many layers does the STENA MFM have?
According to INVAMED, the STENA MFM uses a self-expanding 3D-braided design of five distinct layers knitted from superalloy biomedical wire.
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.
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
Sizing and oversizing decisions are made from calibrated imaging by the operator, following the device instructions for use. Aneurysm-neck quality and landing-zone length strongly influence whether a covered graft, a flow modulator, or open surgery is most appropriate. Manufacturer descriptions of flow modulation and radial support reflect design intent rather than guaranteed clinical outcomes. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) treats infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms using bifurcated modular endografts that exclude the aneurysm sac from circulation. Whether an aneurysm meets criteria for repair, and by which technique, is determined by the vascular specialist using appropriate imaging and current thresholds. Repair strategy depends on the segment involved, with distinct considerations for the abdominal aorta below the kidneys and the thoracic aorta in the chest. Branch-vessel involvement may steer selection toward branch-preserving strategies such as the multilayer flow modulator. Where a bare stent fits into a given repair is a technical decision made by the vascular specialist. Landing-zone length and proximity to arch branch vessels are key planning factors evaluated by the operator. INVAMED provides diameter and length options across its Atlas aortic grafts to accommodate a range of neck and landing-zone dimensions. Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) treats thoracic aortic aneurysms with a stent graft placed in the descending thoracic aorta. 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.
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.