Carbon-dioxide versus saline flushing to reduce neurological brain injury in thoracic aortic endovascular repair (TEVAR)

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A thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is a swelling of the main blood vessel & the aorta – in the chest. If a TAA puts too much pressure on the aorta and ruptures, it can be fatal. TAAs can be repaired through keyhole surgery to place a stent in the aorta which acts as an artificial blood vessel for the blood to flow through.

Although a life-saving procedure, it can lead to complications such as stroke and widespread brain damage.

This project will test whether removing air from stents using carbon dioxide can reduce the risk of complications and improve the outcomes from this life-saving surgery.