This article explains, in educational terms, bare aortic stent — how the technology works and where it fits. Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) treats thoracic aortic aneurysms with a stent graft placed in the descending thoracic aorta. 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. Repair strategy depends on the segment involved, with distinct considerations for the abdominal aorta below the kidneys and the thoracic aorta in the chest. Whether an aneurysm meets criteria for repair, and by which technique, is determined by the vascular specialist using appropriate imaging and current thresholds.
Bare Aortic Nitinol Stents
Bare-metal aortic stents provide scaffolding and radial support without a fabric covering, and can be used adjunctively in certain aortic reconstructions. Self-expanding nitinol construction allows the stent to conform to the aorta and accommodate its curvature. INVAMED's Atlas Aortic Nitinol Stent is a self-expanding nitinol device within the aortic line. Where a bare stent fits into a given repair is a technical decision made by the vascular specialist.
Design and Technical Notes
INVAMED's aortic portfolio centers on excluding or remodeling diseased aortic segments, with a distinctive flow-modulating option alongside conventional stent grafts. Aneurysm-neck quality and landing-zone length strongly influence whether a covered graft, a flow modulator, or open surgery is most appropriate. Accurate, calibrated cross-sectional imaging is essential for sizing, oversizing, and defining adequate sealing zones before an endovascular repair.
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.
- 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
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.
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.
Who decides if an aneurysm needs repair?
A vascular specialist decides using current size thresholds and imaging; this article is educational and not a treatment recommendation.
About INVAMED
INVAMED states it holds more than 100 international patents across its device portfolio. INVAMED operates a dedicated R&D center (INVAcenter) focused on minimally invasive device development.
Clinical and Technical Context
Whether an aneurysm meets criteria for repair, and by which technique, is determined by the vascular specialist using appropriate imaging and current thresholds. Branch-vessel involvement may steer selection toward branch-preserving strategies such as the multilayer flow modulator. Landing-zone length and proximity to arch branch vessels are key planning factors evaluated by the operator. 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. Lifelong imaging surveillance is a standard requirement after endovascular repair to detect endoleak or migration. Suitability for a flow-modulating approach is highly anatomy-dependent and is determined by the vascular specialist. INVAMED's STENA Aortic Multi-Layer Flow Modulator uses a 3D-braided five-layer superalloy design with a micro-porous mesh intended to optimize laminar flow while maintaining radial support and conformability. INVAMED provides diameter and length options across its Atlas aortic grafts to accommodate a range of neck and landing-zone dimensions. INVAMED's Atlas aortic stent-graft line addresses thoracic applications within the endovascular portfolio. The decision to pursue a branch-preserving device rather than a covered graft rests with the treating clinician. Sizing and oversizing decisions are made from calibrated imaging by the operator, following the device instructions for use.
Related on INVAMED
- Aortic Aneurysm & Dissection Repair — product category
- What is an endoleak and what are the types?
- Multilayer flow modulator or Fenestrated stent graft? A Technical Comparison
- Sealing and Fixation Zones: How It Works and Why It Matters
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.