Traditionally, aneurysms have been treated with invasive open surgery which is still considered the standard treatment by most doctors. The availability of minimally-invasive treatments that are less stressful and carry less risk to the patient is one of the reasons that Bergen Surgical Specialists is a top vascular center in Bergen County.
During an open repair, the surgeon makes an incision (remove large) in the abdomen or the left side to expose the aorta. A graft is then used to repair the aneurysm. Endovascular aneurysm repair only requires tiny incisions, usually in the femoral artery of the thigh. The surgeon inserts wires and catheters that with the aid or fluoroscopy cameras allow them to view the inside or the artery without opening it. This technique allows the surgeons to insert stent grafts on the inside of the artery, rather than replacing the blood vessel which is done in the open approach. Once the stents are implanted, the stent will expand to create a strong new lining inside the aorta and prevent flow into the aneurysm. Over time, the aneurysm will shrink around the graft, further strengthening the vessel.
Some of the benefits of endovascular treatment over traditional open treatment include a reduction in general anesthesia, shorter hospital stay, less pain from the procedure, and a reduction in blood loss. There is also a greater potential for trauma to the heart, lungs, or bowels and for developing a blood clot with open repair.
The best approach to treating aneurysm is to have one of the top vascular specialists in Bergen County to evaluate your condition. The endovascular treatment used for aneurysms by the Bergen County vascular surgeons make it more appealing for patients to get the treatment they need to prevent the risk of rupture and to relieve their symptoms without the traumatic impact of surgery.