Automated Laser Modified EndoGraft (ALMEG).
Journal:
Journal of endovascular therapy : an official journal of the International Society of Endovascular Specialists
Published Date:
Jul 7, 2025
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To describe the technical details of a new and innovative method for modifying endografts to treat complex aortic aneurysms, especially in limited time and under stressful conditions. The first case ever performed using this method is also described.Method description:Automated Laser Modified EndoGraft (ALMEG) is a new method developed in Thoracic and cardiovascular Center, Linköping University Hospital, Sweden. A simple planning program was designed, and an automated laser fenestration machine was built to assist in planning and modification of endograft in cases with complex aortic aneurysm anatomy requiring repair. The planning program generates a patient's template based on computerized tomography angiography. The endograft is un-sheathed in a sterile environment and then scanned to generate an endograft template. The 2 templates are used to identify the optimal positions of fenestrations on the endograft. The laser machine then cuts fenestrations automatically and shortens the endograft if needed. The fenestrations are reinforced with nitinol wire and diameter-reducing ties are added to the endograft. The endograft is then re-sheathed and deployed in patient's aorta.
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