EVAR is particularly successful in treating an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), which is a dangerous weakening and bulging of the body's largest artery. The primary goal of EVAR is to prevent the aneurysm from rupturing, which is often fatal. An aortic aneurysm is a bulge or balloon-like dilation that occurs in the aorta, which is the body's largest artery. The aorta carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
Historically, aortic aneurysms were treated with open surgery, which involved a large incision, clamping the aorta, and surgically replacing the diseased segment with a synthetic graft. Medical innovations have allowed for EVAR to offer a less invasive alternative, making it suitable for many patients who might be considered high risk for open surgery.
AHN prioritizes a patient-first philosophy, which means tailoring care to meet you and your unique needs. When facing the diagnosis of an aortic aneurysm and considering advanced treatment options like EVAR, a health care partner with proven expertise and a compassionate, measured approach make all the difference.
AHN is a leading choice for EVAR, offering state-of-the-art care that prioritizes your safety, recovery, and long-term well-being. Choosing AHN for your EVAR procedure means:
At AHN, choosing EVAR means choosing a team dedicated to excellence, safety, and your long-term vascular health. We are here to guide you through every step of your journey, providing compassionate, world-class care.
The EVAR procedure is a minimally invasive surgery that is performed in an AHN hospital setting. Prior to the surgery, your AHN care team will give you specific instructions to follow to prep for the surgery. There may be modifications to your medications or diet. Your provider will also do a full health exam to ensure you are ready for the surgery. Here are some things to know about an EVAR procedure that will help you feel confident going into it:
Recovery from an EVAR procedure will vary for everyone. It’s important to remember that patience and following post-care instructions from your AHN care team will help you get back to feeling fully recovered sooner. Immediately after your surgery, you will spend some time in a recovery room where you will be closely monitored as you come out from under anesthesia.
Once you regain full awareness, you will move to general recovery where your pain will be managed, and your progress will continue to be monitored. You may have an IV where fluids and pain medication will be administered. You also might have a catheter. Once you’ve been cleared to do so, activity will be encouraged that will help in your recovery. Once you have been cleared for discharge, which is usually one to three days post-op, you can go home.
At home, a mix of rest and restorative activity is encouraged. You’ll want to avoid lifting heavy objects and strenuous activity. But including some walking and light activity is good for your circulation and overall health. Your AHN care team will give you your specific at home plan, so you can feel confident in your recovery journey.
For many, the idea of having this procedure may be scary or overwhelming. At AHN, we understand the emotions that come with having procedures and are focused on helping you find resources and support that will make your experience less worrisome. Your AHN care team is available to answer any and all questions you may have, and, in the meantime, these frequently asked questions may help you feel a little more informed. You can use these as a starting point in future conversations with your care team.
The recovery time for endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) is generally shorter compared to traditional open surgery. Most patients can expect to be in the hospital for one to three days after the procedure. Full recovery and return to normal activities typically take two to six weeks, though this can vary based on individual factors like overall health, age, and any complications. Patients are usually advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few weeks.
Endovascular repair for an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), also known as EVAR, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat an enlarged or weakened area in the aorta, the body's main artery, located in the abdomen. Instead of a large incision, surgeons make small incisions, usually in the groin, to access the femoral arteries. Through these incisions, a catheter is guided to the aneurysm site. A stent-graft, a fabric tube supported by a metal mesh, is then delivered and deployed within the aneurysm to reinforce the weakened artery wall and redirect blood flow, preventing the aneurysm from rupturing.
After returning home from an EVAR procedure, patients can expect the following:
Call (412) DOCTORS 412-362-8677 to schedule an appointment with a specialist if you have not yet been evaluated for or diagnosed with a heart condition yet. To schedule an EVAR procedure with a vascular surgeon, call 412-359-8820.
