Aortic Aneurysms (Thoracic and Abdominal)

An aortic aneurysm is a serious condition in which a section of the aorta—the largest artery in the body—weakens and bulges. This can occur in the chest (thoracic aortic aneurysm) or the abdomen (abdominal aortic aneurysm). If left untreated, an aneurysm may rupture, leading to life-threatening internal bleeding. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Signs and Risk Factors

Aortic aneurysms often develop without symptoms, but some patients may experience back pain, chest pain, or a pulsating feeling in the abdomen. Common risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, atherosclerosis, and a family history of aneurysms.

Treatment Options

At PIH Health, we offer a range of treatment options for aortic aneurysms tailored to the individual patient’s needs.

Minimally Invasive Treatment Options

We utilize the latest minimally invasive techniques for managing aortic aneurysms, including:

TEVAR (Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair)

TEVAR is a minimally invasive procedure to treat thoracic aortic aneurysms, which weaken the walls of the aorta in the chest. Through a small incision, a catheter is used to guide a stent graft into the aorta, reinforcing the aneurysm and preventing rupture. TEVAR offers a safer, faster recovery alternative to traditional open surgery.

Benefits of TEVAR:

• Minimally invasive with smaller incisions
• Shorter hospital stays and recovery time
• Lower risk of complications compared to open surgery

EVAR (Endovascular Aneurysm Repair)

EVAR is used to treat abdominal aortic aneurysms. Similar to TEVAR, a stent graft is placed inside the aneurysm via a catheter to reinforce the artery and prevent rupture. EVAR is especially beneficial for patients who are at higher risk from open surgery due to age or health conditions.

Benefits of EVAR:

• Less invasive than open surgery
• Reduced recovery time and shorter hospital stays
• Effective prevention of aneurysm rupture

Surgical Options

In addition to minimally invasive methods, we also offer traditional surgical approaches for more complex cases:

• Open Aneurysm Repair: This surgical procedure involves making a large incision to directly access the aorta and remove the affected section. The surgeon then replaces it with a synthetic graft, providing a durable solution for the aneurysm.
• Peripheral Bypass Surgery: If the aneurysm affects blood flow in nearby arteries, peripheral bypass surgery may be necessary to reroute blood flow around the blockage, ensuring adequate circulation to the limbs and other organs.

At PIH Health, our team of experienced specialists are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with aortic aneurysms. Early intervention and personalized treatment plans are key to achieving the best possible outcomes. If you suspect you may be at risk or have been diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm, contact us today for an evaluation and to discuss your treatment options.

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