Objective: We studied the value of noncovered, self-expanding stents for treatment of ulcerated plaques and focal aneurysms of iliac arteries.
Materials and methods: Seventeen patients with ulcerated plaques (n = 13) and aneurysms (n = 5) were treated with noncovered, self-expanding Wallstent endoprostheses. A total of 18 lesions were stented. The lesions were in the common iliac artery (n = 10), the external iliac artery (n = 3), or affected parts of both arteries (n = 5). Their mean length was 3.5 +/- 1.0 cm. All lesions were accompanied by stenosis of the affected arterial segment.
Results: Occlusion of ulcerations or aneurysms occurred immediately in three cases and thereafter in the remaining 15 cases, as shown by angiographic follow-up. Embolization did not occur. Follow-up revealed a 4-year cumulative patency of 82%, with reobstruction of the stent in three cases.
Conclusion: Noncovered stents are a rational approach to treating circumscribed aneurysms and ulcerated plaques of the iliac arteries. The stent regularly smoothens the vessel wall by sealing the ulcerated area or aneurysm immediately or soon after stent placement.