Automated Laser Modified EndoGraft (ALMEG).
Wajdi Alrawi, Samuel Saers, Robert C Lind
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
The report describes the first use of Automated Laser Modified EndoGraft (ALMEG), a method developed to modify endografts for complex aortic aneurysm repair. Computed tomography angiography is used to create a patient-specific template, which is matched to a scanned endograft template to plan fenestration positions. An automated laser then cuts the fenestrations and can shorten the graft; the openings are reinforced with nitinol wire, and diameter-reducing ties are added before the graft is resheathed and deployed. The abstract provides technical details but does not report the patient’s presentation, clinical outcome, or resolution.
What made this case unusual
The method automates patient-specific endograft fenestration and optional shortening using a planning program and laser machine, aiming to reduce manual modification time and human error, including when time is critical.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
For complex aortic anatomy requiring a modified endograft, ALMEG uses matched patient and graft templates to guide automated fenestration; the report describes the technique, not evidence of clinical effectiveness.