New thesis on patient outcomes of endovascular surgery for AAA
Hi Marko Bogdanovic, doctoral student at the Vascular Surgery research group, Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery.
You will defend your thesis "Strategies to predict patient-specific outcomes after endovascular aneurysm repair" on December 5, 2024 . What is the main focus of the thesis?
”My thesis is on patient-specific outcomes following endovascular surgery for abdominal aortic aneurysm”.
The aim of the dissertation was to generate new knowledge to improve short- and long-term outcomes for patients undergoing elective endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). By analyzing morphological, biomechanical, and epidemiological aspects, the studies collectively focused on identifying complications related to endografts and challenges specific to certain types of endografts. A particular emphasis was placed on examining early aneurysm sac changes post-EVAR, as these changes may indicate successful treatment. Finally, the dissertation aimed to characterize patients achieving favorable outcomes and to identify the factors predicting this profile, with a focus on sex differences.
Which are the most important results?
The studies investigated several patient-specific outcomes influencing short- and long-term results after EVAR. Beyond anatomical considerations, the type of endograft was identified as a significant risk factor for complications such as limb occlusion. Specifically, the Zenith Alpha endograft demonstrated a markedly higher occlusion rate, associated with distinct risk factors that must be considered during EVAR. Sac shrinkage was identified not only as a positive predictor of surgical success but also as a therapeutic target for EVAR. Persistent sex differences in outcomes highlight the need for multimodal research efforts.
How can this new knowledge contribute to the improvement of people’s health?
Based on findings from the first two studies, surgical practice in Sweden has changed, with reduced use of the Zenith Alpha endograft. The third and fourth studies highlight critical factors for achieving positive patient outcomes, which should enhance awareness among vascular interventionists.
What are your future ambitions?
To continue my residency in vascular surgery, further develop my clinical skills, and apply the research findings in our clinical practice. Additionally, I aim to continue conducting research in the field of abdominal aortic aneurysms, with several planned projects awaiting initiation.
Dissertation
Thesis
Strategies to predict patient-specific outcomes after endovascular aneurysm repair