Question:

What is the most common cause of re-intervention after endovascular intervention for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)?

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Memorize the 5 Types of Endoleak:
- Type I: Incompetent seal (proximal/distal). Needs urgent fix.
- Type II: Retrograde branch flow (IMA/lumbar). Most common.
- Type III: Graft defect or component separation. Needs urgent fix.
- Type IV: Graft porosity. Self-limiting.
- Type V: Endotension (sac expansion without visible leak).
Updated On: Sep 3, 2026
  • Endoleak
  • Stent migration
  • Graft failure
  • Limb occlusion
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Concept:
Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) is a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery for AAA, but it carries a specific set of long-term complications that necessitate rigorous surveillance and potential re-intervention.
Explanation:
• An endoleak is the persistent flow of blood into the aneurysm sac outside the lumen of the newly deployed endoluminal graft.

• This persistent blood flow maintains systemic arterial pressure within the aneurysm sac (pressurization), thereby failing to eliminate the risk of aneurysm expansion and eventual fatal rupture.

• Endoleaks are recognized as the "Achilles' heel" of EVAR and are by far the most common complication requiring secondary surgical or endovascular interventions.

• Type I endoleaks involve an incompetent seal at the proximal or distal attachment sites and mandate urgent repair due to high rupture risk.

• Type II endoleaks are the most common overall; they occur due to retrograde flow from branch vessels (like the inferior mesenteric artery or lumbar arteries). While often observed initially, they require intervention if the sac continues to expand.

• Type III endoleaks represent structural failure or disconnection of the graft components and also require immediate repair.

• While stent migration, graft failure, and limb occlusion do occur, their incidence is significantly lower than that of endoleaks in the post-EVAR population.
Final Answer:
Endoleaks are the most frequent complication and the primary reason for re-intervention following EVAR procedures.
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