Detection of isolated hook fractures 36 months after implantation of the Ancure endograft: a cautionary note

Abstract

Two cases of delayed (36-month) Ancure hook fracture are reported in patients who experienced a decrease in aneurysm size and no evidence of endoleak. Both devices used redesigned hooks and are otherwise identical to those devices currently used in clinical practice. Notably, hook fractures were not visualized on all abdominal radiographic views, nor were they noted on the final "institutional" report by the reviewing radiologist. Careful clinical follow-up with multiple-view abdominal radiographs remains essential for all patients treated with an endovascular graft, with particular attention directed to the integrity of the metal components. The broader clinical significance of this observation with respect to the Ancure endograft remains to be defined.