Hypothermia Severely Effects Performance of Nitinol-Based Endovascular Grafts In Vitro

The nitinol-based TAG device shows marked decreases in radial expansive force and deployed diameter at temperatures at or below 30°C. Surgeons should be aware of the potential implications of placing nitinol-based endoprostheses in hypothermic conditions. In addition, all health care providers should be aware of the changes that occur in nitinol-based endoprostheses during therapeutic hypothermia.