Allen Said:

Dad has a 5cm+ Abdominal Aorta Aneurysm, found a month ago, why are they waiting until August to do surgery?

We Answered:

There are certain tests to be completed and tests that have to be run in order to prepare for the surgery. Im certain the surgeons want to have a positive outcome, so they need data to complete the surgery. My father had to have several angiograms, a CAT scan and various blood work so that the surgeon could decide which option of procedures was the best, what supplies/equipment would be needed (i.e what size catch screen and what size shunt and patch) as well as make sure that my father could withstand the surgery itself (he had some phenomenology testing as well as a cardiac stress test and lots of blood work done).
If your father was in immediate danger, there would have been immediate action. I know an abdominal aneurysm sounds scary, but the doctors will do what needs to be done, when it needs to be done.

Stephanie Said:

Food ideas on what to make for somebody who has an abdominal aortic aneurysm?

We Answered:

Undergoing an endovascular stent grafting procedure. A less common type of surgery to treat abdominal aortic aneurysm differential is an endovascular stent grafting procedure. During this procedure the surgeon makes a small incision in your groin and inserts a metal coil with an artificial material. This material will help to cover the bleeding portion of the blood vessel.
Abdominal aortic aneurysm differential is a serious condition in which the large blood vessel that leads to the abdomen becomes enlarged and can rupture.
Take care always

Gertrude Said:

Why can't my grandfather talk after Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm surgery?

We Answered:

Honestly, they probably inflated the cuff on the endotracheal tube in the wrong place (before it completely cleared the larynx). Ok, in English, there's a little rubber bulb on part of the breathing tube that helps hold it in place and seals the airway so nothing can go in except the air/gas they're given. This bulb is supposed to be inflated after it passes completely through the vocal cords. If it's inflated while still partially in the cords, it can cause damage (usually temporary). This isn't extremely uncommon, but is easily avoided.
How long was he on a ventillator after surgery? If someone is intubated (on a breathing machine) for several days, it can cause hoarseness as well (even with a properly placed tube).
Hope he feels better soon!

Diane Said:

does anybody know what the symptoms are of an abdominal aortic aneurysm?

We Answered:

The Sympotms of AAA are:

Most abdominal aortic aneurysms produce no symptoms (they are asymptomatic). They are often incidentally discovered when abdominal ultrasounds and/or CAT scan studies are ordered for other conditions. When they produce symptoms, the most common symptom is pain. The pain typically has a deep quality as if it is boring into the person. It is felt most prominently in the lower back region and lower abdomen. The pain is usually steady but may be relieved by changing position. The person may also become aware of an abnormally prominent abdominal pulsation.

I think that if you are too afraid to see a doctor have on ecome to you or call them or have a friend or relative call them.Good Luck!!

Anita Said:

abdominal aortic aneurysm?

We Answered:

She's at high risk for post-op complications due to her COPD.

Before it's repaired in any way, she should be examined by a lung specialist.

The aneurysm is just into the "think about fixing it" range. For the AVERAGE patient, that's where the risks of the surgery are outweighed by the benefits. Unless they think she is having symptoms from it, there's no reason to rush to surgery.

Both open & stent graft repair require general anesthesia, which is risky with severe COPD. A skilled surgeon MIGHT consider doing it under local anesthesia and sedation.

However, not all aneurysms can be fixed with stent grafts.

Having said this, I have seen several patients (with larger aneurysms) and COPD survive the surgery.

If it's going to be fixed, ask the surgeon how many he/she has done, the complication rate, etc. A good surgeon doesn't mind the question.

Good luck.