Aneurysm Repair

Aneurysm repair is an operation that is performed to avoid a situation in which a weakened section of an artery ruptures or creates a blood clot, endangering the life of the patient. An aneurysm can occur anywhere in the body, including the brain, legs, spleen and – most often – the aorta, which is the body’s largest artery. When an aneurysm becomes symptomatic and/or enlarged, a vascular or cardiothoracic surgeon may be consulted for this type of procedure. Depending on the patient’s condition and the location, type and size of the aneurysm, a minimally invasive repair called an endovascular stent graft may be employed to repair the weak spot. This type of repair uses a “stent graft,” which is a small tube made of fabric with a metal mesh frame, to reinforce the area. A second type of aneurysm repair is a “clipping” procedure in which the surgeon uses small clips or clamps to stop blood from reaching the aneurysm.