Surgery>>>>>Thoracic Aneurysms and Aortic Dissection
Question 8#

Endoleaks:

A. Type I and type IV generally require early and aggressive intervention
B. Are uncommon
C. Can occur during the initial procedure or over time
D. Are benign

Correct Answer is A

Comment:

Another significant complication of descending thoracic aortic stent grafting is endoleak. An endoleak occurs when there is a persistent flow of blood (visible on radiologic imaging) into the aneurysm sac, and it may occur during the initial procedure or develop over time. Although endoleaks are a relatively common complication, they are not benign, because they lead to continual pressurization of the sac, which can cause expansion or even rupture. These complications are categorized (Table below) according to the site of the leak. Although all endoleaks may progress such that they can be considered life-threatening, type I and type III endoleaks generally necessitate early and aggressive intervention. Recently published reporting guidelines aid standardized reporting. 

Classification of and common treatment strategies for endoleak: