Long-term Results With CorMatrix Extracellular Matrix Patches After Carotid Endarterectomy

Background Previous reports of extracellular matrix (ECM) patch use after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) have noted an approximately 10% rate of pseudoaneurysm (PSA) formation. PSA-related rupture of ECM patches has also been described after femoral artery repair. In these studies, different thicknesses (4-ply versus 6-ply) and no standard length of soaking the patch in saline before implantation were used. Herein, we describe our experience with ECM CorMatrix patches in 291 CEAs with 6-ply patches. Methods The records of 275 consecutive patients undergoing 291 CEAs with CorMatrix 6-ply patches beginning in November of 2011 and extending until 2015 were reviewed. Only 6-ply patches and a 1 min hydration time in saline were used in all patients. No shunts were used. Results There were three deaths within the first 30 d secondary to subsequent cardiac surgical procedures. Nine patients experienced a perioperative stroke (3.1%), only one of which occurred secondary to an occluded internal carotid artery. One patient had a transient ischemic attack with a patent endarterectomy site. In follow-up, 11 patients (4.5%) developed severe recurrent stenoses requiring reintervention. Only one patient (0.34%) developed a PSA at 2 years possibly secondary to chronic infection. The median follow-up was 72 mo. Conclusions Our experience with 6-ply CorMatrix ECM patches and a brief period of soaking demonstrated that these patches performed well in patients requiring a CEA. Only one PSA was noted.