Duplex Ultrasonography and its Use in Surveillance Post-EVAR

Abstract

After endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR), patients require annual surveillance with either CT scan or duplex ultrasonography (DU). These studies should be used to identify patients who require reintervention for EVAR complications. DU, a less expensive and radiation free option, has been shown to accurately predict aneurysm sac size and endoleak. In addition, using criteria of PSV<300 cm/s and PSV ratio <3.5, DU can rule out limb stenosis. After a normal post-procedure DU, only 2.2% of patients require reintervention within the first 3 years suggesting that less frequent follow-up may be utilized. DU is an important tool in the surveillance of EVAR patients.