Norman Heart and Vascular Associates (Norman)

Procedures

Aneurysmal Disease

Aneurysmal Disease

An aortic aneurysm is a pathological dilation and stretching of the walls of the aorta. This can eventually lead to rupture and life-threatening bleeding. We routinely screen at-risk patient populations in an attempt to identify and treat these aneurysms before they rupture and become an emergency. The type of aneurysm will dictate which of the following procedures are required to repair it. Thoracic endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (TEVAR) and endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) are both minimally invasive procedures wherein a graft or stent is placed inside the artery to exclude the dilated portion of the artery from blood flow. It essentially replaces a short segment of the vessel and decreases the risk of subsequent rupture. During the above surgeries, a small incision is made in your groin in order to insert the graft. This access allows the surgeon to insert small catheters that allow him to deploy a stent in the area of the aneurysm. Most patients can expect go home the day after their surgery with minimal restrictions.

Pre-op routine: Before your surgery, your surgeon will see and examine you as well as review all pertinent labs, imaging, and tests. You will have ample opportunity to ask questions and gain a full understanding of the nature of your disease process and the surgery to treat that disease. You will have lab tests, lung function tests, EKG, and chest x-ray prior to surgery. Your preoperative instructions will be provided to you in office. Follow them, and call the office with any needs or concerns.