An Updated Review on Arterial Stiffness Measurement Techniques and Arterial Stiffness Alterations After Aortic Aneurysm Repair

Abstract

Background

Studies over the last years have revealed the possible impact of endovascular repair of abdominal or thoracic aortic aneurysms on the arterial stiffness and secondary on the cardiac function and the central hemodynamics.

Methods

A literature search was conducted to collect data on current methods of arterial stiffness assessment and the induced changes in arterial stiffness after endovascular or open surgical repair of abdominal or thoracic aortic aneurysms.

Results

Seventeen studies were analyzed. In most of these studies, arterial stiffness, either assessed by pulse wave velocity or augmentation index, was found to be increased after aortic aneurysm repair. Factors that increase arterial stiffness seem to be endovascular repair of the aneurysm and the proximity of the stent graft to the heart. The clinical implications of increased arterial stiffness are left ventricular hypertrophy, coronary arteries malperfusion and potential end-organ damage.

Conclusions

Both endovascular and open aortic aneurysm repair can alter arterial stiffness, with endovascular repair having a greater effect. Future research is essential, particularly in exploring the impact of aortic aneurysm repair methods on vital organs and cardiac function. Extended follow-up studies are proposed to gain a better understanding of the long-term cardiovascular consequences of both endovascular and open surgical repair outcomes.