What is a stent for aneurysm repair?

A stent graft for aneurysm repair is a type of stent used to treat aneurysms in the aorta or other arteries. Key features include:

- It has a mesh-like tubular stent structure to provide support, but is covered by a graft material, usually Dacron or PTFE.

- It is inserted via a catheter into the site of an aneurysm, typically in the abdomen or chest. 

- When deployed, it spans the aneurysm and seals off the weakened vessel wall from high-pressure blood flow.

- This relieves pressure on the aneurysm and prevents further dilation and potential rupture.

- The graft material is sutured in place above and below the aneurysm, essentially creating a new conduit for blood flow.

- Over time, the aneurysm sac shrinks around the stent graft which stays permanently implanted to reinforce the damaged artery.

- Stent grafts can treat fusiform and saccular aneurysms in the aorta, iliac arteries, and other abdominal or thoracic arteries.

- The minimally invasive stent graft procedure is generally less risky than open aneurysm repair surgery.