30 December 2013
Green Light for New Device to Treat Complex Disease of the Main Heart Artery
NICE has recommended the use of the E-vita open plus stentgraft system for treating complex aneurysms and dissections of the thoracic aorta.
Some people might normally need a two stage repair operation because of the extent of disease or damage affecting their aorta, but using the device could remove the need for a second procedure and the associated risk of serious complications.
The E-vita open plus device consists of two sections joined together which allows two areas of damaged aorta to be treated in one procedure. Once in place, the blood flows through the device, instead of into the aneurysm or the tear in the wall of the aorta.
The device can also replace part of the aorta if it is badly damaged. The blood in the aneurysm or the damaged wall of the aorta eventually forms a clot, posing no further risk.
Because there is no need for a second operation and the risk of complications is reduced, outcomes for patients are improved and there are anticipated savings associated with using the device compared to standard two stage procedures.
Savings are generated from around two years after the procedure using E-vita open plus. At 10 years after the procedure estimated savings range from just under £22,000 to around £28,000 per patient compared with current practice.
Professor Carole Longson, Director of the NICE Centre for Health Technology Evaluation, said: “This final guidancesupports the NHS usingthe E-vita open plus for treating complex aneurysms and tears in the wall of the aorta.
“When used in a carefully selected group of people who may have extensive disease or damage affecting their aorta, the deviceis estimated to potentially save the health service up to £28,000 per patient over 10 years compared to standard management. As a second surgical procedure would be avoided by using the E-vita open plus, this device is good news for the patient as well as the NHS.”