Computational Simulations of Fenestrated Endovascular Aneurysm Repair

Fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair is a minimally invasive method to treat abdominal aortic aneurysms. Stent grafts used in this process contain fenestrations that need to be aligned with the visceral arteries; however, fenestration misalignment (rotation) is a common occurrence and can result in severe complications. The objective of this work is to develop a finite element model of the deployment of these devices to predict potential rotation. As a first step, a model for simulating the response of iliac arteries to stiff guidewire insertion is presented and validated against clinical data. This model is then extended into a model of the entire stent graft deployment process and validated against six clinical cases, with an average error of 17%. Finally, a parameterization study is undertaken as a means of potentially minimizing or eliminating device rotation. Simulated rotation values are more than halved by modifying various coefficients of friction.