There is adequate evidence of the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm, but the technical demands are such that this procedure should not be used without special arrangements for consent and for audit or research.
Clinicians wishing to undertake laparoscopic repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm should take the following actions.
Inform the clinical governance leads in their Trusts.
Ensure that patients understand the procedure and its place in the elective treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm. They should provide patients with clear, written information. In addition, the patient should be informed of other available techniques, and told that conversion to open surgery may be necessary. Use of NICE's information for the public is recommended.
Clinicians undertaking this procedure should submit data on all patients to the National Vascular Database held by the Vascular Society.
Selection of patients should be performed by a multidisciplinary team experienced in the management of aortic aneurysms and able to offer alternative treatment options.
This procedure should be performed by vascular surgeons who have had training in advanced laparoscopic surgery, and are mentored in these techniques.