Image Courtesy of A.D.A.M.
This surgical repair addresses an enlargement of the aorta, the large artery that carries blood to your abdomen, pelvis and legs. Aneurysm refers to a widening or enlargement in the artery which occurs as a result of weakness in the wall of the artery. Surgery becomes necessary when the aneurysm grows quickly or is leaking/bleeding (It is possible to have an aortic aneurysm without symptoms or problems).
The type of surgical repair required for aortic aneurysms depends upon the size and location of the aneurysm, as well as any other associated vascular or cardiac problems. In some cases, if an aneurysm is small, it may not require surgery but will will be monitored periodically by echocardiograms or X-Ray scans.
Patients of Riverview Cardiac Surgery find recovery from aortic aneurysm surgery fairly quick. A typical hospital stay following the aortic aneurysm repair is between seven and ten days, with a return to work, driving and other normal activities within four weeks.
