For many years, endovascular aortic aneurysms were operated with classical (open) surgery techniques. With the technological developments of the past two decades, the aortic aneurysms can be repaired without incisions, using catheters only. In this technique, an artificial vessel that contains stent graft, is placed inside the aneurysm. This artificial vessel opens inside the aneurysm, which treats the aortic aneurysm from inside. The endovascular aortic aneurysm repair technique can be employed in most of the aortic aneurysm cases, excluding those on the ascending aorta.
Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm
This technique is mostly preferred on the high-risk group. The objective is to minimize the risks involved. In selecting the surgery technique (open or endovascular) the surgeon takes many factors into account: patient’s age, the location and size of the aneurysm, its distance to the main arteries that deliver blood to vital organs, patient’s general state, concomitant diseases, etc. The surgeon decides which technique would be the best option for the patient. In certain cases, performing an open surgery in one session may involve high risks for the patient. In some cases, only endovascular surgery would not suffice for treatment. Then, both open and endovascular aneurysm repair techniques are either integrated and performed sequentially.
The aortic aneurysm treatment techniques necessitate special experience. The surgical team must be experienced in both open and endovascular aortic aneurysm repair. Besides, the center must be well-equipped.
Since it is less invasive (no incision), the endovascular aortic aneurysm repair enables shorter hospitalization. There is less need for blood transfusion. The patient gets back to normal life more quickly.
Prof. Dr. Mustafa Güden was born in 1965 in Kayseri, Turkey. After having graduated from Kadikoy Anadolu High, he attended Istanbul University, Capa, Faculty of Medicine. Following his graduation in 1989, Mustafa Guden received his degree as a Cardiovascular Surgeon at Istanbul University, Cardiology Institute. He served at Sisli Florence Nightingale Hospital for 10 years. read more
Patient Care at Home Following an Open-Heart Surgery
After the discharge your doctor will prescribe oral medication. The prescription may include any or some of the medication listed below, depending on their need for the continued treatment.
Blood-thinner: Aspirin, Warfarin (Coumadin etc.). Blood-thinners help decrease the embolism risk.
Cardiac medication: These agents will strengthen your heart and regulate the pace.
Stool softeners: These medications eliminate constipation by facilitating the normalization of bowel movements.
Diuretics: Enabling you discharge more liquids, diuretics eliminate edema and excessive liquid accumulation. read more