Published with the inputs from Dr Harilal V Nambiar, Senior Consultant, Cardiovascular Thoracic Surgery, Baby Memorial Hospitals- Kozhikode
An aortic aneurysm is a bulge or weakening in the wall of the aorta, the body’s largest artery. If it grows too large, the aneurysm may rupture, causing life-threatening bleeding. Aortic aneurysm repair is a surgical procedure that strengthens or replaces the weakened section of the aorta to prevent rupture and protect heart and vascular health. Treatment may involve open surgery or a minimally invasive approach called EVAR (Endovascular Aneurysm Repair).
Aortic aneurysm repair is done to prevent a dangerous rupture of the aorta. It involves either replacing the weakened section of the aorta with a graft during open surgery, or reinforcing it with a stent graft using a minimally invasive endovascular technique. The procedure is recommended when the aneurysm is large, growing quickly, or causing symptoms.
There are two main approaches:
Open surgical repair: The damaged portion of the aorta is replaced with a synthetic graft through a large incision in the chest or abdomen.
Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR/TEVAR): A stent graft is placed inside the aorta through small incisions in the groin, reinforcing the aneurysm from within.
The choice depends on the size, location, and shape of the aneurysm, as well as the patient’s overall health. EVAR is less invasive and usually offers a faster recovery, but not all aneurysms are suitable for this method. Open surgery may be recommended for younger patients or complex aneurysms.
Both procedures carry some risks, including bleeding, infection, heart or lung complications, and blood clots. EVAR has fewer immediate risks but requires lifelong monitoring, while open repair is more invasive but often provides a durable long-term solution.
Recovery varies depending on the type of procedure. After EVAR, patients are often discharged within 2–3 days and resume normal activities in a few weeks. Open repair requires a hospital stay of about 7–10 days, with full recovery taking up to 2–3 months.
With timely treatment, most patients recover well and live healthy lives. Regular follow-up imaging is essential, especially after EVAR, to ensure the stent graft remains in place and the aneurysm is stable. Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle helps prevent future vascular problems.
If you’ve been diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm, early treatment is critical to preventing rupture and saving lives. Our Cardiac and Vascular Surgery Team at Baby Memorial Hospitals offers advanced expertise in both open repair and minimally invasive EVAR.
📞 Call us or book an Appointment Online to discuss your treatment options.