Novel Devices and Skilled Specialists in Expanding Program Create New Solutions for Treating Complex Aneurysms
Orlando Health Heart and Vascular Institute continues to expand its endovascular aortic program, pioneering a variety of novel solutions for repairing complex aneurysms. Highly skilled cardiovascular specialists combine the latest generation of minimally invasive endovascular technology with newly released stent grafting to provide treatment options customized to individual patients, including those whose anatomy is unsuitable for standard devices.
“We have developed a multifaceted team, built infrastructure and added ancillary equipment and technology that enables us to care for 99% of the most complicated vascular cases that come to us,” says Aleem Mirza, MD, a board-certified vascular surgeon at Orlando Health Heart and Vascular Institute and an expert in the treatment of complex and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.
Recognized leaders in thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair (F/BEVAR), Orlando Health vascular surgeons successfully repaired the region’s first two cases of thoracoabdominal aneurysms using F/BEVAR grafts in January 2024. Since then, more than 60 patients have received fenestrated-branch stents with the program averaging nearly 40 cases annually.
The institute was also one of the first regionally to debut the latest model of a novel thoracic endovascular stent graft immediately following its approval in early 2025. This graft is the first aortic device with an approved CO2 flushing protocol to minimize air emboli into the vascular system during a procedure.
Most recently, Orlando Health vascular surgeons received primary access to a novel next-generation iliac branch device released in summer 2025. “We were among the first programs nationally to repair iliac aneurysms using this device and one of the first to put it in a bilateral case,” says Dr. Mirza, who has participated in several trials using investigational manufactured devices.
Access to the most advanced technologies and involvement in several aortic-based clinical trials enable surgeons to better create more durable repairs, customize stents to a specific patient and fix type 1A endoleaks from previous repairs. “We continue to expand the endovascular aortic program in minimally invasive repair for complex cases but also our open aortic procedures for the cases like infection necessitating that type of repair,” says Dr. Mirza.
Orlando Health Heart and Vascular Institute is a national Top 50 program recognized for cardiovascular innovation, exemplary heart care, advanced research and education. With expertise in more than 40 specialty areas, providers are highly skilled in leading technologies, including innovative diagnostic services, nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatment options.
