A Closer Look at Aortic Aneurysm Surgery: Procedures, Preparation, and Postoperative Care
An aortic aneurysm is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by a weakening in the wall of the aorta, the largest artery in the body. This weakening can lead to a bulge or aneurysm, which, if it grows too large, may rupture and cause severe internal bleeding. Aortic aneurysms are classified based on their location in the aorta: thoracic aortic aneurysms (in the chest) and abdominal aortic aneurysms (in the abdomen). Surgery is often recommended to repair or remove the aneurysm, especially if the aneurysm has reached a certain size or is growing rapidly. This article covers the types of aortic aneurysm surgery, the steps involved in preparing for the procedure, and what to expect during recovery. Types of Aortic Aneurysm Surgery Surgery for aortic aneurysms is tailored to the patient’s specific needs, factoring in the patient's size, location, and overall health. Two primary types of surgeries are performed to treat aortic aneurysms: open aortic surgery and endovascular an