Colonic necrosis subsequent to catheter-directed thrombin embolization of the inferior mesenteric artery via the superior mesenteric artery: A complication in the management of a type II endoleak

The optimal management of endoleaks after endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms remains to be established. In this report, we describe a persistent side-branch, or type II, endoleak 1 year after endograft implantation treated with catheter-directed embolization of the aneurysm sac and the inferior mesenteric artery via the superior mesenteric artery, with embolization agents including thrombin, lipiodol, and gelfoam powder. Shortly after the embolization procedure, colonic necrosis developed in the patient, manifested by peritonitis, which necessitated a partial colectomy. This case underscores the devastating complication of colonic ischemia as a result of catheter-directed embolization of the inferior mesenteric artery in the management of an endoleak. (J Vasc Surg 2001;34:1119-22.):