Surgery for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
During surgery for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), the weakened aortic wall is replaced with a hollow manmade tube (a graft).
Reaching the aneurysm
The aorta can be reached through open surgery.
Open surgery
An incision is made in your abdomen. Once inside, your surgeon gently moves aside your organs to reach the damaged section of the aorta.
Placing the graft
The goal is to safely route blood past the aneurysm.
During open surgery
Here is what to expect:
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The aneurysm is opened and cleaned of any blood clot.
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The graft is sewn to the aorta.
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The wall of the aorta is wrapped around the graft to protect it. The wall is then sewn up.
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The incision site is closed with sutures or staples.
Risks and complications
Here are potential problems to be aware of:
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Infection
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Blood clots in legs
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Bleeding
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Kidney failure
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Respiratory failure
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Injury to the colon’s blood supply
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Erectile dysfunction
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Spinal cord injury
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Heart attack, stroke, or death
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