1. Patients with a descending thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA). TAA is defined by a balloon-like dilatation of the thoracic aorta. Such a dilatation may grow and eventually rupture, associated with high mortality. In the United States, more than 10,000 patients die every year due to a ruptured aneurysm. Current United States guidelines state that when the diameter of a TAA in patients with no connective tissue disorder is larger than 55-60 mm, aortic repair is recommended. To date, TEVAR is the first choice of therapy unless the anatomy is unsuitable or the patient has a connective tissue disorder.