Lessons learned and learning curve of fenestrated and branched endografts.

Fenestrated and branched endovascular repair (F-BEVAR) has been increasingly used to treat patients with complex aortic aneurysms involving the renal-mesenteric arteries. As with any new procedure, there is a learning curve associated with mastering the technique. However, proficiency with deployment is only one aspect of the learning process, and ultimately, this curve is defined not by one quality parameter, but by patient selection, the performance of the entire team, the surgeon's ability to adapt to unexpected events, and the durability of the repair. This article reviews the importance of novel training paradigms, learning curve, and factors affecting outcomes of complex endovascular aneurysm repair.