How is an Aortic Aneurysm Treated?
Treatment for an aneurysm varies according to its severity and stage. If a rupture is not imminent, the physician may decide to monitor the growth of the aneurysm using ultrasound and CT scans, and attempt to lower the pressure on the aneurysm using medication to lower the blood pressure. New drugs that may retard the growth of aneurysms are being evaluated in research studies. If the aneurysm has expanded to the stage where a rupture may be imminent, surgical aortic aneurysm repair may be necessary. Alternatively, repair of the aneurysm may be possible using a newer minimally invasive procedure called endovascular stent graft aortic aneurysm repair. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair Open surgery for aortic aneurysm repair is a very well investigated procedure that is considered to carry a low risk of complications and to have a very good success rate. Its aim is to replace or fortify the damaged portion of the vessel (aorta). General anaesthesia is required for the procedure. An incisi