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
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. Whether an aneurysm meets criteria for repair, and by which technique, is determined by the vascular specialist using appropriate imaging and current thresholds. 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.
Multilayer flow modulator vs Fenestrated stent graft: Key Differences
A multilayer flow modulator preserves branches by modulating flow through a bare mesh, while a fenestrated stent graft preserves branches through custom-made holes aligned to each vessel. The flow modulator avoids the need to cannulate and align individual branch openings, whereas fenestrated grafts provide a sealed covered exclusion. INVAMED's STENA MFM represents the flow-modulating approach for selected complex, branch-involving anatomy. Which strategy fits a particular aneurysm is a specialized decision made by the treating clinician.
How INVAMED Supports Both Approaches
Device availability and regulatory status vary by country. Please contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.
Key Considerations
- Manufacturer descriptions of flow modulation and radial support reflect design intent rather than guaranteed clinical outcomes.
- Accurate, calibrated cross-sectional imaging is essential for sizing, oversizing, and defining adequate sealing zones before an endovascular repair.
- Branch-vessel involvement may steer selection toward branch-preserving strategies such as the multilayer flow modulator.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
Clinical and Technical Context
Follow-up imaging is used to confirm that the sac remains excluded and stable over time. INVAMED's Atlas Endovascular Stent Graft and Atlas Aortic Stent Graft are positioned for this sac-exclusion role in the abdominal aorta. All INVAMED aortic devices are intended for use by trained vascular specialists under imaging guidance and per the IFU. 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. INVAMED's Atlas aortic stent-graft line addresses thoracic applications within the endovascular portfolio. Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) treats thoracic aortic aneurysms with a stent graft placed in the descending thoracic aorta. Suitability for a flow-modulating approach is highly anatomy-dependent and is determined by the vascular specialist. Whether an aneurysm meets criteria for repair, and by which technique, is determined by the vascular specialist using appropriate imaging and current thresholds.
Related on INVAMED
- Aortic Aneurysm & Dissection Repair — product category
- How long does an aortic stent graft last?
- What size aneurysm requires surgery?
- 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.