Intravascular ultrasound-assisted endovascular exclusion of penetrating aortic ulcers
Background: Penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU) is an atherosclerotic lesion penetrating the elastic lamina and extending into the media of the aorta. It may evolve into intramural hematoma, focal dissection, pseudoaneurysm, and eventually rupture. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a totally intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)-assisted endovascular exclusion of PAU. Methods: Thirteen consecutive patients (median age 66 years) underwent IVUS-assisted endovascular exclusion of PAU.