Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to manage abdominal aortic aneurysms. During this procedure, small punctures are created to insert special surgical devices known as stent grafts. These grafts create a new lining for your artery, lowering the risk of a rupture.
Who is a Candidate for Endovascular Aneurysm Repair?
EVAR is performed on those with an aortic aneurysm, which affects the aorta. Your interventional radiologist or vascular physician may recommend that you undergo a surgical procedure called open aneurysm repair if your aneurysm:
Is causing symptoms
Is larger than 2 inches
Is enlarging under observation
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To begin an open aneurysm repair procedure, also known as surgical aneurysm repair, you will be given anesthesia to help you fall asleep. Incisions will be created in your abdomen to access the aneurysm.
A thin tube known as a catheter that contains a stent graft will be guided through your arteries to reach the aneurysm. Your physician will be assisted by real-time imagery during this process. The weakened part of your aorta will be replaced with a tube-like graft. This graft consists of woven fabric lined with metal and is shaped like a healthy aorta. This tube will replace the diseased part of the aorta, allowing blood to easily pass through. Endovascular stent grafting can be used to treat abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), as well as thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs).
Once the catheter reaches the aneurysm, the stent graft is opened so that it expands and acts as a new path for blood to flow. When the procedure is complete, the catheter is removed.
Because incisions are generally small, endovascular treatments allow you to leave the hospital sooner and quicken the recovery process with less risk of complications and pain than traditional surgery. However, traditional surgery may be required if the location or shape of the aneurysm is not favorable for an endovascular treatment.
Endovascular Aneurysm Repair Aftercare
Following EVAR surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for 5-7 days, and complete recovery generally takes about 2-3 months. You should take care to follow your physician’s aftercare instructions regarding medications, physical activity, and driving.
EVAR has a great success rate, as more than 90% of open aneurysm repairs are successful in the long term.
To learn more about endovascular aneurysm repair, please contact South Florida Vascular Associates by giving us a call or filling out our online form. We serve the greater Southeast Florida areas with locations in Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach, and Plantation, FL.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recovery time for endovascular aneurysm repair?
The recovery time for endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) can vary depending on the patient's overall health, the complexity of the procedure, and any potential complications. In general, patients can expect a shorter recovery period compared to traditional open surgical repair.
How safe is endovascular aneurysm repair?
Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is generally considered safe, with a relatively low risk of complications compared to traditional open surgical repair. The overall safety of EVAR depends on the experience of the surgical team and careful post-procedure monitoring and management of potential complications.
What is the success rate of endovascular repair?
In general, EVAR is highly effective in preventing aneurysm rupture and reducing the risk of related complications. Studies have reported short-term success rates of over 90%, with many patients experiencing long-term durability of the repair.
Is endovascular aneurysm repair better than open repair?
EVAR offers several potential advantages over traditional open surgical repair, including shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and reduced risk of certain complications such as infection and blood loss. However, open surgical repair may still be preferred in certain cases, particularly for complex or anatomically challenging aneurysms.
What is the life expectancy after endovascular surgery?
In general, EVAR is intended to prevent aneurysm rupture and related complications, thereby improving overall survival rates. Studies have shown that EVAR can significantly reduce the risk of aneurysm-related mortality compared to untreated aneurysms.
