An aortic aneurysm is a bulge or ballooning of the aorta—the major blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. When the wall of the aorta weakens and begins to bulge, it poses a serious risk of rupture, which can lead to life-threatening internal bleeding.
Aneurysms can occur in the chest (thoracic aortic aneurysms) or the abdomen (abdominal aortic aneurysms). Both require prompt medical attention and often surgical intervention, depending on size, growth rate, and associated symptoms.
When is Aortic Aneurysm Repair Needed?
Many aortic aneurysms are detected during routine imaging or check-ups and may not immediately require surgery. However, surgical repair becomes essential when:
- The aneurysm exceeds a certain size (usually >5.5 cm)
- There is rapid growth over a short time
- Symptoms like chest, back, or abdominal pain occur
- There is a risk of rupture or dissection (tear in the wall)
Surgical Options for Aortic Aneurysm Repair
Dr. Palkesh Agrawal specialises in advanced surgical repair of both thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms. There are two primary types of repair:
1. Open Surgical Repair
In this traditional approach, the weakened section of the aorta is replaced with a synthetic graft. This method is often preferred for younger patients or those with complex anatomy and has excellent long-term outcomes when performed by experienced surgeons, such as Dr. Agrawal.
2. Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR/TEVAR)
A minimally invasive technique where a stent graft is inserted through small incisions in the groin and guided to the aneurysm using imaging. EVAR is typically recommended for patients who may not tolerate open surgery due to age or other health conditions.
Why Choose Dr. Palkesh Agrawal?
Dr. Agrawal is a highly trained and trusted cardiothoracic surgeon known for his precision, patient-centred care, and advanced surgical techniques. With a deep understanding of vascular complexities, he offers both open and endovascular options tailored to each patient’s condition and overall health.
At every step, from diagnosis to recovery, patients are supported with compassionate care and expert medical guidance to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery times vary depending on the type of procedure. Open repair typically involves a hospital stay of 5–10 days, followed by several weeks of recovery at home. EVAR patients usually have shorter hospital stays and a faster return to normal activities.
Regular follow-up imaging and monitoring are essential post-surgery to ensure the graft is functioning correctly and to detect any new issues early.
Take Control of Your Heart Health
Aortic aneurysms are silent but potentially deadly conditions. Timely diagnosis and expert intervention are key to preventing rupture and saving lives. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm, schedule a consultation with Dr. Palkesh Agrawal for trusted, experienced care and personalised surgical planning.
