Understanding the Different Types of Aneurysms
An aneurysm can develop silently and rupture without warning. Knowing the signs of different types, as well as when to seek emergency medical assistance, could save your or someone else.
How Vascular Stenting Treats My Aneurysm
Endovascular stent surgery, or endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), is a minimally invasive surgical treatment used to treat an aneurysm in the primary blood vessel (aorta) that transports oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Endovascular stent surgery is less invasive than open surgery.
The most appropriate procedure for repairing an aneurysm is determined by various criteria, including the aneurysm's location and shape, as well as the patient's physical condition. At Advanced Heart and Vascular Associates, Nader Chadda, MD, specializes in vascular intervention and is backed by years of experience performing complex interventions, including endovascular stent surgery for aneurysm repair.
What is an aneurysm?
An aneurysm is a bulge in a blood vessel wall, and you can have one for years without knowing it. Aneurysms develop when an area of a blood vessel wall weakens. The aorta is the largest artery in the body and the most common site for an aneurysm to develop. It begins at the heart and travels upward into the chest, then extends downward into the abdomen.
A thoracic aortic aneurysm develops in the chest, while an abdominal aortic aneurysm arises in the abdomen. Treatment prevents potentially life-threatening complications. If left untreated an aneurysm can burst and cause massive bleeding.
What causes an aneurysm?
Several factors can increase the risk of developing an aneurysm, including:
- High blood pressure
- Genetic disorders
- Infection
- Atherosclerosis
Older adults and people with high cholesterol are at a higher risk of developing an aneurysm.
How stenting repairs your aneurysm
Endovascular stenting is commonly recommended when your aneurysm is at risk of rupturing. The procedure involves placing a stent inside the aorta to reinforce the weak area of the artery wall and prevent the aneurysm from rupturing.
Dr. Chadda will make a very small incision over the groin, and a catheter will be inserted into the femoral artery. The catheter is guided to the site of the aneurysm for the installation of the stent graft using X-ray imaging.
The stent is subsequently attached to the aorta's walls. Around the stent, the aneurysm will contract. Following the treatment, X-rays are obtained to guarantee proper stent insertion and to monitor for blood leakage. After that, the catheter is withdrawn, and the groin incision is closed.
After surgery, we monitor you closely. It's possible that you'll need to stay in the hospital for three days. To prevent blood clots, you will be given blood-thinning drugs. To alleviate any discomfort, pain medicines are also provided.
Endovascular stent surgery may have a shorter recovery time than open surgery since it is less invasive. Patients can usually return home in a few days and resume normal activity after 4 to 6 weeks.
Aneurysm treatment
To discuss your aneurysm treatment, call our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chadda. We have offices in Hudson, Brooksville, and Land O’ Lakes, Florida. New and existing patients can also book online. We offer in-person and telehealth appointments to keep you connected to top-quality cardiovascular care.
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