Aortic Aneurysm Surgery is a procedure performed to repair an aortic aneurysm, which is a bulge or swelling in the aorta, the main artery carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body. An aneurysm can be life-threatening if it bursts, so surgery is often necessary to prevent such complications.
Types of Aortic Aneurysm Surgery:
Open Surgery:
- This traditional method involves making a large incision in the chest or abdomen to access the aorta. The damaged section of the aorta is replaced with a synthetic graft.
Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR):
- A minimally invasive procedure where a catheter is inserted through the groin and guided to the aneurysm site. A stent graft is then placed inside the aorta to reinforce the weakened area.
Indications for Surgery:
- Large aneurysms or those growing rapidly
- Symptoms such as chest or back pain
- Risk of aneurysm rupture
Frequently Asked Questions
When is surgery necessary?
- Surgery is needed for large or rapidly growing aneurysms, symptoms like chest or back pain, or a high risk of rupture.
What is endovascular repair?
A minimally invasive procedure using a catheter to place a stent graft inside the aorta to reinforce the aneurysm.
What are the recovery times?
Open surgery usually requires a longer hospital stay (5-10 days) and several weeks to months to recover. Endovascular repair generally has a shorter hospital stay (2-3 days) and quicker recovery.