What does the term "stent graft" refer to in interventional procedures?

The term "stent graft" specifically refers to a medical device utilized in interventional procedures to support and reinforce blood vessels, particularly in cases such as aneurysms or vessel stenosis. A stent graft combines a stent—a small, expandable mesh device that helps keep a blood vessel open—with a graft, which is a synthetic or biological material that provides a barrier to support the vascular structure. This dual functionality allows the stent graft not only to maintain the open passageway of the blood vessel but also to provide a conduit for blood flow through diseased or weakened sections of the vessel wall.

In interventional radiology, stent grafts are critical for repairing vascular defects because they can be inserted minimally invasively, typically via catheterization, which reduces recovery time and the risk of complications compared to traditional surgical interventions. Understanding the role of stent grafts is essential for anyone involved in vascular interventional practices, as they represent a significant advancement in treating various vascular conditions.