Small and medium aneurysms are monitored regularly with ultrasound, CT or MRI scans, whereas large aneurysms generally call for surgical intervention.

 

The two main types of  surgery for an AAA are:

• Open Surgery : Damaged portion of aorta removed and replaced with a synthetic graft through a cut in the abdomen.

• Endovascular Surgery (EVAR): Graft inserted through a blood vessel in the groin and passed up into the aorta.

 

Although both these techniques are equally effective, we recommend the EVAR procedure.

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Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR)

 

In endovascular surgery, a stent graft is inserted into a blood vessel through small incisions in your groin. It's then carefully guided up into the region of the aneurysm and expanded. The graft is fastened in place with the metal mesh that frequently has small hooks or pins. The graft reinforces the weakened section of the aorta to prevent rupture of the aneurysm.

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The surgry is usually performed under general anaesthetic, where you're asleep.

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The post-operative stay is 2 days and recovery period is from a few weeks to a month.

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The risk of complications is generally lower than with open surgery, and the hospital stay and recovery time is often shorter. Around 98% of people make a full recovery.

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Risks associated with endovascular surgery: 

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• The graft leaking or slipping out of position – you'll have regular scans to check for this, and may need another operation to fix any problems

• A wound infection or infection of the graft

• Heavy bleeding from your groin

• Blood clot, heart attack or stroke