METHODS: A literature search was conducted of Medline and Embase databases from January 2007 to February 2017, using the key words 'aortic disease', 'thoracic aorta' and 'endovascular repair'; 205 articles were identified, of which 25 studies were selected for review based on their relevance.
FINDINGS: The key findings of the indications, techniques, outcomes, complications and comparisons with open surgical repair were extracted from the published studies and are summarised in this review. Thoracic endovascular aortic repair is the preferred choice of intervention for patients with descending thoracic aortic disease. With time, it has improved to be safer and has the potential to expand aortic treatment choices in future.
METHODS: The methodology was based on the search process described in the paper, "Bibliography of clinical research in Malaysia: methods and brief results". The search databases included PubMed, Scopus and several Malaysian journals such as MyJurnal and UKM Journal Repository, by using the following keywords: (heart valve disease OR infective endocarditis OR rheumatic heart disease) and (Malaysia).
RESULTS: In all 94 papers were identified of which 39 papers were selected and reviewed on the basis of their relevance. The local studies contributed to the knowledge and understanding of the epidemiology, aetiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentations, investigations, treatment, and outcomes of heart valve disease in the country.
DISCUSSION: The clinical relevance of the studies performed in the country is discussed along with recommendations for future research.
METHODS: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, MyJurnal and the UKM Journal Repository. The search process was based on a previously published methodology. The medical subject headings (MeSH) search terms used were "aortic", "aorta" and "Malaysia".
RESULTS: Two-hundred-thirteen papers were identified, of which 60 papers were selected and reviewed on the basis of their relevance. The epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentations, case reports, investigations, treatment and outcomes of aortic disease in Malaysia were reviewed and summarised. The clinical relevance of the studies performed are discussed.
CONCLUSION: The review provided an insight into the pathophysiology, prevalence and epidemiology of aortic diseases in Malaysia, how the condition is managed, and the outcomes of treatment. Limitations of the research performed in Malaysia to date were identified and recommendations for further research and improvement in clinical practice were recommended.