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Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) |
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What is an abdominal aortic aneurysm?
An aortic aneurysm is a weakened area in the main blood vessel (aorta) that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Aneurysms can develop anywhere along the aorta, but most occur in the section running through your abdomen (abdominal aortic aneurysm). Aortic aneurysms, depending upon the size, are serious due to the possibility of rupture.
What is endovascular stent grafting?
Endovascular stent grafting offers a less invasive treatment option, and shorter recovery time, for patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm. This is accomplished through the insertion of a catheter into an artery in the groin and directed under x-ray guidance to the aneurysm. Through the catheter, the interventional radiologist passes a stent graft, which is then opened, creating new walls in the blood vessel through which blood flows.
Who does the procedure?
An interventional radiologist (physician with special training in minimally-invasive procedures using image guidance) will perform the procedure jointly with a vascular surgeon.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure generally takes 2-3 hours. You will lie still for a period of time after the procedure to allow the groin site to seal.
Will I be asleep for the procedure?
The type of anesthesia you receive depends upon each individual patient. There are two types of anesthesia – general and spinal. If you receive a spinal anesthetic, you will also receive a sedative through an Intravenous (IV) line to help you relax during the procedure. You will remain awake, but relaxed during the procedure. If you receive a general anesthetic, you will be completely asleep during the procedure.
How long will I stay in the hospital?
Patients are often discharged the day after the interventional repair and most return to normal activity in two weeks.
What should I do after the procedure?
You will have a follow-up visit with the interventional radiologist who performed the procedure. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis may be performed at this time.
For more information, please call our nurse clinician at the Vascular Center of Suburban Imaging – Coon Rapids at 763-792-1980. |
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