Endovascular Aortic Repair (EVAR)

Endovascular aortic repair is a minimally invasive treatment preferred for many patients with an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).

Yet, not all aneurysms are recommended for repair. Our WakeMed vascular surgeon will take into account the size, location, speed of growth, level of complication and health.

Standard Endovascular Aortic Repair

Our WakeMed vascular team will use a puncture or small incision to insert a catheter towards the location of the aneurysm. It will be guided by imaging. As the tube accesses the aneurysm, a stent graft is inserts and sent to the location through the catheter. The stent graft is put in place and a wire frame is used to seal it in place. Blood will then begin to flow through the stent graft, avoiding the aneurysm. The entire procedure usually takes about one and a half to two and half hours. Most patients leave the hospital within five days. 

Complex Endovascular Aortic Repair

The major difference between the steps above and this one are that a different type of graft is placed in the body. It is called a fenestrated graft. It has tiny cutouts that make it more flexible, modifiable and easier to align with your other arteries. In order for the repair to be effective, the graft that is inserted must work for your body. In some cases, a special customizable graft will need to be manufactured, especially for you. This procedure takes longer, around three to eight hours with similar stays at the hospital.

Care After the Procedure

After you have this procedure, it is critical that you make your health a priority. Stop smoking, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, take all medications prescribed by your doctor and maintain a healthy blood pressure and cholesterol level.