Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Treatment in Michigan
ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM
When part of a blood vessel is dilated it is called an aneurysm. The blood vessel is then at least 1.5 times wider than normal. An aneurysm can occur in any artery, but is most common in the abdominal artery. Then it is called abdominal aortic aneurysm or AAA.
The artery in the abdomen is normally about 2 centimeters wide. With an aneurysm, the widened part is at least 3 centimeters wide. This can go up to more than 10 centimeters.
If an aneurysm is found – with the help of MRI or CT-scan – the vascular surgeon will determine what to do. Usually an operation is not immediately necessary. However, the abdominal aneurysm must be checked regularly. Aortic Aneurysm Treatment Surgery may be required if the aneurysm is larger than:
– 5 cm in women
– 5.5 cm in men.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Treatment
Aortic Aneurysm Treatment Without surgery
Operation of an aneurysm is not necessary if the risk of rupture is small. The doctor then monitors the growth through checks. This is called watchful waiting. Medicines and lifestyle risk management lower the chances of the aneurysm growing or rupturing.
Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR)
This operation is done via an incision in the groin.
The vascular surgeon inserts a prosthesis through the blood vessel. A prosthesis, also called an endoprosthesis or stent, is a folded-in tube of metal and plastic.
The vascular surgeon uses X-ray equipment to position the prosthesis in the right place. When this is successful, the prosthesis is unfolded and secured properly. This way, the blood can only flow through the prosthesis.
The aneurysm is now closed and can no longer stretch or rupture.
Fenestrated Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair (FEVAR)
Some arteries have multiple branches towards the organs, for example the artery near the kidneys. The prosthesis should not block those side branches. Because the blood vessels in each body are in different places, a custom prosthesis is needed.
Such an endoprosthesis with openings on the side branches is called Fenestrated EVAR, also known as FEVAR.
If you are suffering from high levels of Aortic Aneurysm and searching for Aortic Aneurysm Treatment surgery near me in Michigan, call Advanced Veins and Vascular Management today to book an appointment with a specialist surgeon. Call us now.