An aneurysm is an abnormal bulge or ballooning in the wall of a blood vessel. It can occur in any blood vessel, but is most commonly found in the aorta – the body’s largest artery. While some aneurysms remain stable for years, others can grow silently and rupture without warning. If an aneurysm ruptures, it can cause life-threatening internal bleeding.
Understanding aneurysms and knowing when aneurysm surgery is necessary can be lifesaving.
Legae Vascular’s vascular surgeon provides expert, personalised care within one of the nation’s leading healthcare facilities. Through a multidisciplinary team approach, we collaborate with specialists in cardiology, nephrology, internal medicine, radiology, neurology, and vascular surgery, as well as allied healthcare professionals. This comprehensive model ensures that patients receive the highest level of care, from diagnosis to recovery.
What Is an Aneurysm?
An aneurysm occurs when a section of an artery wall weakens, causing it to bulge outward. Over time, this bulge can enlarge due to the constant pressure of blood flowing through the vessel.
If the aneurysm continues to expand, the arterial wall may thin and eventually rupture, a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.
Common Types of Aneurysms
Although aneurysms can occur anywhere in the body, several types are more common:
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) develops in the lower portion of the aorta, which supplies blood to the abdomen, pelvis, and legs. AAA is one of the most frequently diagnosed aneurysms and carries a significant risk if left untreated.
Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm
A thoracic aortic aneurysm occurs in the portion of the aorta located in the chest. These aneurysms may grow silently and are often detected incidentally during imaging tests.
Peripheral Aneurysm
Peripheral aneurysms develop in arteries outside the aorta, such as:
- Popliteal artery (behind the knee)
- Femoral artery (thigh)
While less common than aortic aneurysms, they can still lead to serious complications if untreated.
Symptoms of an Aneurysm
One of the most concerning aspects of aneurysms is that they are often asymptomatic until they rupture.
Possible symptoms may include:
- A pulsating sensation in the abdomen
- Deep, constant pain in the abdomen or lower back
- Severe chest or back pain (thoracic aneurysm)
- Sudden, intense pain indicating rupture
Because aneurysms can develop silently, early detection through routine medical screening is crucial, particularly for individuals with risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking history, or a family history of aneurysms.
When Is Aneurysm Surgery Required?
Not all aneurysms require immediate surgery. Treatment decisions are based on:
- Size of the aneurysm
- Rate of growth
- Location
- Patient’s overall health
- Risk of rupture
Small aneurysms may be monitored regularly through imaging and managed with medication to control blood pressure and reduce strain on the artery wall.
However, aneurysm surgery becomes necessary when:
- The aneurysm reaches a size associated with increased rupture risk
- Rapid growth is observed
- Symptoms develop
- There is evidence of leakage or impending rupture
Timely aneurysm surgery significantly reduces the risk of life-threatening complications.
What Is Aneurysm Surgery?
Aneurysm surgery involves repairing or removing the weakened section of the artery to prevent rupture.
There are two primary approaches.
Open Surgical Repair
Open aneurysm surgery is a traditional method in which the surgeon makes an incision to directly access the aneurysm. The weakened section of the artery is replaced with a synthetic graft to restore normal blood flow.
Advantages:
- Long-term durability
- Suitable for complex anatomy
Considerations:
- Requires general anaesthesia
- Longer hospital stay
- Extended recovery time
Open repair remains a highly effective option, particularly for certain complex aneurysms.
Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR)
Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is a minimally invasive form of aneurysm surgery. A small incision is made in the groin, and a catheter is used to guide a stent-graft into the aneurysm. The graft reinforces the weakened artery from within, redirecting blood flow and reducing pressure on the aneurysm wall.
Advantages:
- Minimally invasive
- Shorter hospital stay
- Faster recovery
- Reduced postoperative discomfort
Considerations:
- Requires long-term imaging follow-up
- Not suitable for all anatomical variations
EVAR has become a widely preferred option for many patients due to its lower recovery burden.
Benefits of Aneurysm Surgery
When performed at the appropriate time, aneurysm surgery offers significant benefits:
- Prevents life-threatening rupture
- Restores vascular stability
- Reduces pain and pressure symptoms
- Improves long-term survival rates
- Provides peace of mind
- Early surgical intervention can be lifesaving.
Risks and Considerations
As with any major medical procedure, aneurysm surgery carries risks. These may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Cardiac or pulmonary complications
- Graft-related issues (in EVAR)
- Need for future procedures
At Legae Vascular, every patient undergoes thorough evaluation to ensure that the benefits of aneurysm surgery outweigh the potential risks. Treatment plans are carefully tailored to individual health profiles.
The Legae Vascular Approach to Aneurysm Surgery
What distinguishes Legae Vascular is our comprehensive and patient-centred care model.
- Multidisciplinary Expertise: Our vascular surgeon collaborates with cardiologists, nephrologists, radiologists, and other specialists to manage underlying health conditions that may affect surgical outcomes.
- Advanced Imaging and Diagnosis: State-of-the-art imaging allows precise measurement and planning before aneurysm surgery.
- Personalised Surgical Planning: Each case is evaluated individually to determine whether open repair or EVAR is the safest and most effective option.
- Comprehensive Postoperative Care: Recovery does not end after surgery. Our team provides ongoing monitoring, rehabilitation support, and lifestyle guidance to protect long-term vascular health.
Recovery After Aneurysm Surgery
Recovery time varies depending on the type of procedure.
After EVAR
- Hospital stay is typically shorter
- Most patients resume light activity within days
- Follow-up imaging is required to monitor the graft
After Open Repair
- Hospital stay may last several days
- Full recovery may take several weeks
- Gradual return to normal activity is recommended
At Legae Vascular, postoperative care includes regular check-ups, medication management, and guidance on lifestyle adjustments to support healing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Aneurysm Surgery
Is aneurysm surgery always necessary?
No. Small aneurysms may be monitored with regular imaging. Surgery is recommended when rupture risk becomes significant.
What is the difference between EVAR and open aneurysm surgery?
EVAR is minimally invasive and uses a stent-graft inserted through the groin, while open surgery involves directly repairing the artery through an incision.
How long does aneurysm surgery take?
The duration varies depending on the procedure type and complexity but typically ranges from two to four hours.
What are the warning signs of a ruptured aneurysm?
Sudden severe pain in the chest, back, or abdomen, dizziness, low blood pressure, or loss of consciousness require immediate emergency care.
How successful is aneurysm surgery?
When performed before rupture, aneurysm surgery has high success rates and significantly improves survival outcomes.
Contact Legae Vascular
An aneurysm is a serious vascular condition that may remain silent until it becomes life-threatening. Understanding when monitoring is sufficient and when aneurysm surgery is required can make all the difference.
We combine advanced surgical expertise, minimally invasive techniques like EVAR, and comprehensive multidisciplinary care to deliver exceptional outcomes. From diagnosis to recovery, our goal is to protect your vascular health and provide personalised, world-class treatment every step of the way.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an aneurysm, early consultation with a vascular specialist can provide clarity, reassurance, and potentially lifesaving intervention.
Contact Legae Vascular today to schedule your consultation and learn more about our advanced aneurysm surgery options.