UK first aneurysm treatment trial begins

St George’s begins testing a new technique for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) treatment.

In a landmark moment for UK vascular research, St George’s Hospital has become the first site in the country to recruit a patient in a major international clinical trial testing a new technique for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) treatment.

The trial, known as AAA-Shape, is evaluating a novel device designed to prevent dangerous post-treatment complications, specifically blood leaking into the aneurysm sac, a risk that can persist even after stent placement.

“This is a proud achievement for our department,” said Professor Loftus, part of the senior leadership team driving this effort. “We’ve now randomised our first patient and are excited to continue recruiting as part of this important global study and other groundbreaking international trials across many areas of vascular surgery”.

“Most aortic aneurysms are repaired with stents, which are generally safer and less invasive than open surgery,” explains Professor Loftus.

Most aortic aneurysms today are treated using stent grafts—a safer, less invasive alternative to open surgery. “However, in some cases, these stents don’t completely seal the aneurysm, allowing it to continue growing” Said Professor Loftus.  The new approach being trialled at St George’s includes placing plugs within the aneurysm sac during the stenting procedure, which may reduce the chance of future rupture by encouraging clotting and sealing off the weakened area more effectively.

An AAA is a swelling in the aorta, the main artery carrying blood from the heart through the abdomen. If left untreated and it bursts, the results are often fatal. Treatment becomes necessary when the aneurysm grows beyond 5.5 cm in diameter.

The preferred modern treatment is Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR). This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a stent graft through small groin incisions, guiding it to the aneurysm, releasing pressure, and stabilising the vessel.

Led by Professors Loftus and Holt, the St George’s vascular team has built a strong reputation for clinical excellence and research innovation. Their commitment to improving outcomes has led them to explore advanced techniques like aneurysm sac embolisation, and now, participation in international trials shaping the future of vascular surgery.