ABSTRACT
Atheroembolism results from the release of cholesterol rich atheromatous debris from an ulcerated aorta or an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) into the systemic arterial circulation.1-2 Atheroembolism is a rare condition, but it is becoming more common with the growing indications for endovascular procedures and increasing numbers of candidates undergoing them. At the same time, an ageing population represents a rising incidence of atheromatous ‘shaggy’ aortas and aneurysms warranting treatment. The technical feasibility of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) has been conclusively established, with many centres reporting the successful exclusion of AAAs by endoprostheses.3-5
The surgical community has also enthusiastically embraced this new technology because it offers potentially significant advantages over conventional aneurysm repair in that it avoids transperitoneal or retroperitoneal interventions, general anaesthesia and prolonged aortic clamping while also ensuring rapid recovery.
