Alberto Said:

My stepdad had major surgery (Aortic Aneurysm). He had an epidural for anesthesia.?

We Answered:

It should. Probably a third of our patients report this. I have no idea if it's the meds or not.

Agnes Said:

After aortic aneurysm surgery, does we require one more suregery for left arm movement and pain?

We Answered:

I'm not sure, but seems to be that would be a different problem from the aortic aneurysm. The aneurysm surgery is usually done into the abdomen. Did you have the arm problem before?

Maurice Said:

surgery for aortic aneurysm how long is the hospital stay how many stitches and does it hurt?

We Answered:

Hello, if you are having a stent graft placed, then you will be having the procedure performed through your blood vessels (endovascular repair.) The recovery time and complications are reduced when compared to open repairs of the aorta. The procedure is usually performed through the blood vessels in the groin region. You will be given medication through the IV and directly at the site to prevent you from experiencing pain. There will be minor discomfort at the sites for a few days. If the procedure is without complications, then you will be discharged in 1-2 days. There will be no stitches. You will have to limit your activity for a period of time as directed by your doctor. Such as no bending at the waste, no tub bath, etc. Good luck with your procedure.

Morris Said:

Does any one know the risks occur after Aortic Aneurysm surgery?

We Answered:

risks are many ,from the anesthesia itself ,and from the surgery ,and general related to the blood supply territories ,dont want to go in details ,becoz its endless ,the pain in left arm is iscaehmia related post surgery ,less blood flow

Jason Said:

Will most health insurances require that an aortic aneurysm > 4.5 cm before paying for surgery?

We Answered:

Insurance issues aside, most vascular surgeons wait until the aneurysm is 5cm or larger before operating. The exception is if the aneurysm started growing rapidly.

Why? Actually, it's simple. Numerous studies have shown that there is no mortality benefit to fixing a 'small' aneurysm. The risk from the surgery for a small AAA is actually higher than the risk from the aneurysm.

If the AAA is around 4cm, then we usually get annual ultrasounds.

Terry Said:

What's the death rate for aortic aneurysm surgery?

We Answered:

There are too many factors involved to answer that, including knowing your dad's basic health status.

So you can look at mortality rates on it, but it really doesn't mean anything with your dad. It refers to an average not an individual.

It also depends on where the aneurysm is. He could have to be put on heart bypass and that is risky, having a machine pump his blood for him. There are also different types of procedures. A lot of such surgeries are done on an emergency basis, after there is a rupture. That increases the risk as well.

Any surgery is risky, but if he is at a good hospital with a good surgeon, his odds go up. Given that this is not being done on an emergency basis, that also improves the odds.

Since there is a family history, you will also need to be checked throughout your life.

Be sure to tell him you love him before he goes in for surgery. Gives him a reason to get through it.