Delray Medical Center has become the first hospital in Florida to utilize the innovative Nectero Endovascular Aneurysm Stabilization Treatment (Nectero EAST®) System for treating Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA). The procedure was performed by Dr. Joseph Ricotta, Chairman of the Vascular Surgery Program and National Medical Director of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Surgery for Tenet Healthcare.

Groundbreaking Treatment For Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm At Delray Medical Center

An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is a dangerous condition where a section of the aorta in the abdomen bulges, posing a risk of life-threatening bleeding if it ruptures. Traditional treatments are reserved for larger AAAs, but the Nectero EAST system offers a new approach for smaller AAAs, specifically for women with AAAs between 3.5 cm-4.5 cm and men with AAAs between 3.5 cm-5.0 cm.

The Nectero EAST system delivers a dose of 1,2,3,4,6-pentagalloyl glucose (PGG) directly to the aneurysm site to prevent its growth or rupture. This minimally invasive procedure is performed under local anesthesia, takes less than an hour, and leaves no implants behind.

“We are proud that Dr. Ricotta, a highly respected member of the Delray Medical Center Medical Staff, was selected to participate in this important clinical trial and we congratulate him on being the first surgeon in Florida to achieve this medical milestone,” said Heather Haverciak, the hospital’s CEO. “If proven safe and effective, this therapy has the potential to profoundly impact patients living with aneurysmal disease.”

Significance Of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

AAAs affect nearly 5% of the population, making them a major public health concern. In the US, AAA ruptures result in 4,500 deaths each year, with another 1,400 deaths occurring from attempted repairs. Approximately 1.1 million patients in the US have small- to mid-sized AAAs.

Dr. Joseph Ricotta, a renowned expert in vascular and endovascular surgery, has an impressive background with degrees from Yale University and Jefferson Medical College, and fellowships at the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic. He is also the first U.S. surgeon to use endovascular robotics for minimally invasive vascular surgery.

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