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Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair – Surgery

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Why It’s Done

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What Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is an enlargement of the lower part of the aorta that extends through the abdominal area.

The aorta is the main blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Like most arteries, the aorta is elastic, which allows it to be filled with blood under high pressure.

An aneurysm develops when the wall of the artery becomes weakened and distended like a balloon. Aneurysms usually are discovered before they produce symptoms, such as back pain, but like the weakened hose, they may rupture if they become too large.

A ruptured aneurysm is extremely dangerous and can cause life-threatening bleeding. Aneurysms are best corrected by an operation before this happens.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

Predisposing Factors for Abdominal Aneurysm

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  • Smoking
  • Heredity
  • Congenital defects
  • Injury

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  • Infection
  • High blood pressure
  • Arteriosclerosis
  • High cholesterol

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Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]AAA is a major health risk that may not have related symptoms until a life-threatening event occurs, such as aneurysm rupture. An abdominal ultrasound is a preventive screening tool that can be used to identify an AAA so that prompt treatment can be provided prior to aneurysm rupture.

AAA screening is recommended for the following:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

  • Men age 55 or older with a family history of AAA
  • Women age 65 or older with a family history of AAA or with a smoking background

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Types of Aneurysms

[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Men are more commonly affected by aneurysms than women.

Different types of aneurysms:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

  • Abdominal: In an artery in the abdomen
  • Thoracic: In an artery in the chest area
  • Cerebral: In an artery in the brain
  • Peripheral: In the large arteries that run down the legs and behind the knees, and occasionally arms

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Abdominal Aneurysms

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Most aneurysms occur in the abdomen. Abdominal aortic aneurysms occur most frequently in people over age 60 and most commonly at a point in the aorta just below the level of the kidneys.

Most people are unaware that they have an aneurysm because, in most cases, there are no symptoms.

Symptoms may include:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

  • When performing a physical examination, pulsating enlargement or tender mass
  • Pain in the back, abdomen, or groin that may be prolonged and is not relieved with position change or pain medication

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]A ruptured aneurysm usually produces sudden, severe pain and other symptoms such as loss of consciousness or shock, depending on the location of the aneurysm and the amount of bleeding.

A ruptured aneurysm requires emergency treatment.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

Detecting an Abdominal Aneurysm

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Most abdominal aneurysms are diagnosed during a routine physical examination or on X-ray when being tested for other health concerns.

Once an aneurysm is suspected, the following imaging tests may be used to determine size, location of the aneurysm, and treatment options:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

  • Ultrasound: High-frequency sound waves, inaudible to the human ear, are transmitted through body tissues. The echoes from the sound waves are recorded and transformed into video or photographic images
  • CT scan: Computed tomography uses X-rays and computers to produce images of a cross-section of the body
  • MRI: A large magnet, radiowaves, and a computer are used to produce clear pictures of the body. This procedure does not involve the use of X-rays
  • Angiogram: Test in which a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel and a contrast dye is injected to make the blood vessels visible on the X-ray. This is rarely used to diagnose an abdominal aortic aneurysm, but may be used to aid in the treatment of an aneurysm

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Treating an Abdominal Aneurysm

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]If you have a small aneurysm, your doctor will ask you to come back every 6 to 12 months for a CT or ultrasound. These tests are used to measure the size of your aneurysm and to review any other symptoms you may have.

If surgery is recommended, you will need a comprehensive medical evaluation prior to your surgery, which may include a stress test and cardiology visit.

The best method to repair an aneurysm depends upon several factors, including the location and shape of the aneurysm as well as the physical condition of the patient. Very large or symptomatic aneurysms require treatment.

There are two types of surgical treatments for large aneurysms:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

  • Minimally invasive repair (endovascular grafting)
  • Open surgical repair

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Endovascular Grafting (EVAR)

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Description

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Endovascular means inside or within a blood vessel, which is exactly how a small fabric tube that has metal stents attached to the fabric, called a stent-graft, is introduced into your body and moved into place.

First, small incisions are made in each groin to get to arteries that carry blood from the aorta. The surgeon then moves the stent-graft up through these arteries until it is opened inside the diseased portion of aorta. The stent-graft reinforces the weakened part of the vessel from the inside and creates a new channel through which the blood flows, eliminating the risk of rupture.

Using X-ray guidance, the surgeon places the graft in the area of the aneurysm. The graft is then opened up inside the aorta and held in place with metal hooks and stents rather than stitches. By tightly sealing the area with your artery above and below the aortic aneurysm, the graft allows blood to pass through it without pushing on the aneurysm.

This procedure usually takes 1 to 3 hours, and patients typically leave the hospital in 1 to 2 days. The time frame to return to normal activity ranges from 2 to 6 weeks.

Like any medical procedure, endovascular repair has a risk of complications. It also involves regular routine follow-up visits with your doctor to evaluate the stent-graft. These regular follow-ups are extremely important.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

The Reason for EVAR

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]The goals of aortic aneurysm treatment are to reduce the risk of complications from aneurysms. The major risk for untreated aneurysms is rupture, and as an aneurysm gets bigger, the risk gets greater.

There are several factors to consider when deciding to treat an aneurysm with surgery, including:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

  • The presence of symptoms
  • The size of the aneurysm, in particular its diameter
  • How fast the aneurysm is growing, in particular rapid aneurysm growth
  • The development of an aortic dissection
  • The patient’s overall medical condition

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Your doctor will consider your specific condition and needs when choosing the best treatment for you.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-1 vc_col-lg-3 vc_col-md-offset-1 vc_col-md-3 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_wp_custommenu nav_menu=”9″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row” content_placement=”middle” el_class=”section-full section-faq” css=”.vc_custom_1468939058256{background-color: #f5f5f7 !important;}”][vc_column offset=”vc_col-lg-3 vc_col-md-3 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”left-to-right”]

FAQs

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column offset=”vc_col-lg-9 vc_col-md-9 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_tta_accordion style=”flat” shape=”square” c_icon=”triangle” c_position=”right” active_section=”0″ collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”How Long Does the Procedure Last?” tab_id=”1468939166307-7276b533-98fc”][vc_column_text]The procedure itself generally takes 2 to 3 hours. You will stay in the hospital 1 to 2 days, and full recovery will take about a month.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][/vc_tta_accordion][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row” el_class=”section”][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

Risks

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What Are the Possible Risks of the Procedure?

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]This is generally a very safe procedure, and special precautions are taken to decrease the risk of complications. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks. Your doctor will discuss the specific risks and potential benefits of the recommended procedure with you.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Complications that can happen after endovascular aneurysm repair include:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

  • Leaking of blood around the graft
  • The graft moving away from its initial placement
  • The stent breaking
  • Complications that are rare but serious (paralysis, delayed rupture of the aneurysm, or infection)

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]When you meet with your doctor, please ask questions to make sure you understand the risks of the procedure, outcomes, and why the procedure is recommended.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

Before the Procedure

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Taking Medication

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]A few days before the procedure, you may need preprocedure tests to make sure it is safe for you to have the surgery. You may need to stop taking certain medications before the procedure. Your healthcare team will give you specific instructions to help you prepare for the procedure.

Please tell your physician if you are taking Coumadin or other anticoagulants, diuretics, or insulin.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Your physician may want to stop or adjust the doses several days prior to or on the day of the procedure, especially those listed below:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

  • Anticoagulant medication
  • Aspirin
  • Diabetes medications

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Please discuss all of your allergies with your doctor, especially those listed below:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

  • IVP dye/contrast agent allergy
  • Iodine allergy
  • Latex/rubber products allergy

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What to Bring

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  • A family member to wait with you before the procedure
  • Comfortable, easy-to-fold clothing
  • Toiletries and any other items you would like to make your stay more comfortable. Please note, these will be kept with whomever accompanies you

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  • A one-day supply of your prescribed medications
  • Do not bring any jewelry, watches, and/or valuables

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After the Procedure

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What to Expect After the Procedure

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Your surgeon will give you specific instructions to follow after the surgery until your incision is properly healed.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]You may have the following restrictions after the procedure:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

  • Do not drive until your doctor says it is OK. This is usually 1-2 weeks after the procedure and after you have stopped taking pain medication
  • Do not take a bath until the incisions heal. Showers and sponge baths around the incisions are OK 2 days after the procedure
  • Do not lift more than 10 pounds for 4-6 weeks after the procedure

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How You Will Feel After the Procedure

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]As with any surgical procedure, you will feel a bit tired for a few weeks. You may develop an inflammatory response as blood stops flowing through the aneurysm. The inflammation may cause a low-grade fever (100 or 101 degrees Fahrenheit) and make you feel like you have the flu, but the symptoms will go away in several days.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]You will not notice the stent itself. You should notice no difference in your ability to perform daily activities, and you should be able to get back to all of your regular activities without any restrictions.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

The Results of the Procedure

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Endovascular grafting produces very good outcomes. You will need follow-up visits for the stent-graft, but most patients live a normal life after the procedure.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]In general, patients with aneurysms should follow a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. Having an aneurysm increases your risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis. Along with the aneurysm repair, you should have a full evaluation to assess your risk of these other diseases.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

Open Surgical Repair

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Description

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]This involves the surgeon making a long incision in the skin to open the abdomen to access the abdominal aortic aneurysm.

The segment of the aorta above and below the bulging aortic section is clamped and the aneurysm segment is opened. Tubes made out of artificial material are positioned inside the artery and sewn to the aorta above and below the aneurysm. This essentially replaces the aneurysmal segment of the aorta with an artificial one.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Open surgical repair is a proven procedure that has a good track record and acceptable risks, but it also involves a long recovery period. Average hospital stay ranges from 5 to 8 days. The time until return to normal activity ranges from 6 weeks to 3 months. As with any operation, open surgical repair has a risk of complications. You will want to discuss them thoroughly with your doctor.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

What Is an Endoleak?

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]An endoleak is a complication when some amount of blood flow still remains in the aneurysm cavity. It affects about 15%-25% of patients who have EVAR.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

Diagnosing an Endoleak

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Imaging studies, such as CT scans, ultrasounds, and MRIs, are done during and after an EVAR procedure. These tests show if the procedure was successful and if the stent-graft is in place and working. They also show any leaks around the stent.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]An angiogram is done at the end of the procedure, which usually allows the proceduralist to see Type I, III, and sometimes Type II endoleaks. Post-operative imaging should be performed for the life of the endograft as it is possible for endoleaks to develop in a delayed fashion.

Your doctor will let you know how often you need to come in for imaging tests.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

Treating an Endoleak

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]If you have an endoleak, you will need treatment. The first step is for your physician to determine the type of endoleak. The type of treatment you need depends on the type of endoleak you have and the size of the aneurysm sac. It is important to see an experienced endovascular aortic surgeon for treatment.

If you have a Type I endoleak, treatment should be done the right away. This may include:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

  • Special balloon stents
  • Extending the stented area of the aorta by placing stents beyond the leaking end of the graft
  • Placing special cuffs at the end of the graft
  • Use of special glue-like materials to close off the graft
  • If the graft cannot be repaired using an endovascular technique, you may need an open repair/surgery to remove the stent-graft and repair the aneurysm in standard open fashion

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=”vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-xs-12″][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]Type II endoleaks sometimes stop without treatment. This happens if the branches of the blood vessels that are leaking clot off and stop sending blood to the aneurysm. If this is the case, you will need imaging tests on a regular basis to watch for changes.

If the leak does not stop and causes the aneurysm to get bigger, treatment to close off the blood vessels may include:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”bottom-to-top”]

  • Use of a special glue-like material to stop the bleeding
  • Laparoscopic techniques to tie off the blood vessels
  • You may need open surgery to tie off the blood vessels and repair the graft

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