Aneurysm Repair Procedures

An abdominal aortic aneurysm forms when a section of a blood vessel weakens, creating a balloon-like bulge known as an aneurysm. This issue is most common in the abdominal aorta, a crucial artery that supplies blood to the legs. Treating this condition can be life-saving and may involve either open surgery—removing the aneurysm—or a minimally invasive endovascular stent procedure. Following an evaluation by a vascular surgeon, many patients are found eligible for the less invasive approach.

Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to address aortic aneurysms located below the renal arteries. During EVAR, two small incisions are made in the groin to access the femoral arteries. A graft is placed inside the artery, positioning it around the aneurysm. This graft directs blood flow through a stable passage, thereby reducing the pressure on the weakened vessel wall.

A popliteal aneurysm is an atypical bulge found in the artery behind the knee, categorized as a lower extremity aneurysm. If it remains small, your vascular surgeon may recommend monitoring through ultrasound tests, regular office visits, and medication. In cases where the aneurysm is large or symptomatic, it can be treated with a covered stent placed through a minimally invasive endovascular procedure. This approach often takes place in an outpatient setting.

Thoracic Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (TVAR) involves placing an expandable stent graft within the thoracic aorta (the portion of the aorta inside the chest) to address aneurysms or dissections. Usually done in a hospital, this procedure reroutes blood flow through the stent, eliminating the bulge and pooling of blood, and restoring proper circulation to the body.