Proximal Fixation of Thoracic Stent-Grafts as a Function of Oversizing and Increasing Aortic Arch Angulation in Human Cadaveric Aortas

Abstract

In the face of severe aortic arch angulation, stent-grafts with hooks do not improve fixation. Major factors in stent-graft design that contribute to secure proximal anchorage seem to be radial force and the presence of a proximal open stent segment.