Challenges in Identifying and Interpreting Intercostal Branches of the Adamkiewicz Artery.
Satoru Tomita, Yoshimasa Seike, Tatsuya Nishii, Kazufumi Yoshida, Yojiro Koda, Takayuki Shijo, Yosuke Inoue, Tetsuya Fukuda, Hitoshi Matsuda
Abstract
Open AccessAn 82-year-old woman underwent zone 4 thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for a descending aortic aneurysm. Four years later, an additional TEVAR was performed for a type Ib endoleak. Preoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) initially identified the intercostal artery branching of the Adamkiewicz artery (ICA-AKA) at the left 10th thoracic level, which was covered by a stent graft. Prior to the second TEVAR, CTA showed the ICA-AKA via the left first lumbar artery. Reevaluation of the ICA-AKA is important, particularly after coverage. Surgeons should interpret CTA findings carefully, as other arteries or veins may resemble the AKA.