An aortic aneurysm is a bulging of the aorta, the main artery in our body that extends from our heart to our abdomen. Aortic aneurysms can weaken the aorta and increase the risk of a rupture, causing extensive internal bleeding.  Unless treated immediately, they can lead to shock and death.

They can occur in the thoracic area but are more common in the abdominal area where they are known as abdominal aortic aneurysm or AAA. They usually have no symptoms but can cause abdominal, back or leg pain.    Men who are 65 and older are at the greatest risk.  This condition is more common in people with high cholesterol, long-term high blood pressure, or who smoke. Screening for an aortic aneurysm usually starts with an ultrasound

Fortunately, there are less invasive treatment options for aortic aneurysm.  According to Deborah Heart and Lung Center, the newest evolution in EVAR is a fully-Percutaneous (below the skin) EVAR (PEVAR), which is an even more minimally invasive technique.

Instead of incisions in the groins, small punctures are made directly through the skin into the femoral arteries. Catheters and stent graft devices are then used through the arteries.. In most cases, patients with either EVAR or PEVAR will recovery more quickly than previous procedure.

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