Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Therapy

Description

An aneurysm is a localized enlargement or bulging of a blood vessel caused by a weakening of its wall. While it can develop in any blood vessel it most commonly occurs in the aorta the largest artery in the body or in the brain peripheral arteries and other vascular regions. Aneurysms pose a significant threat to health as their rupture can result in life threatening hemorrhage. Advances in aneurysm repair techniques including both open surgical repair and minimally invasive approaches like Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) have significantly reduced morbidity and mortality rates. Occurs in the abdominal portion of the aorta and is the most common type. Affects the upper portion of the aorta in the chest. Found in the blood vessels of the brain often leading to stroke if ruptured. Develops in arteries of the legs arms or neck. Aneurysms often result from conditions like hypertension atherosclerosis genetic factors trauma or infections. Risk factors include smoking advanced age, male sex and a family history of aneurysms.

Abdominal pain

Small aneurysms are often asymptomatic and discovered incidentally during imaging studies. Larger aneurysms may cause symptoms such as back or abdominal pain chest pain or neurological deficits in cerebral aneurysm. Commonly used for screening abdominal aortic aneurysms. Provides detailed images for surgical planning. Used for cerebral aneurysms and patients requiring detailed soft-tissue evaluation. The choice of repair method depends on the aneurysm location size and risk of rupture as well as the patient overall health. Involves making a large incision to access the aneurysm removing the damaged section and replacing it with a synthetic graft. Preferred for younger patients or cases where endovascular repair is unsuitable due to anatomical constraints. Durable and suitable for complex cases. Involves significant recovery time, with risks including infection bleeding and complications in high risk patients. A minimally invasive technique where a stent graft is delivered through a catheter inserted into the femoral artery and deployed at the site of the aneurysm. The graft reinforces the vessel wall diverting blood flow and preventing rupture. In complex cases a combination of open surgery and endovascular repair may be employed. Useful for thoracic abdominal aneurysms and conditions involving multiple vascular segments. An open surgical technique where a clip is placed across the neck of the aneurysm to prevent blood flow into it. A catheter is used to fill the aneurysm with coils promoting clot formation and sealing it off from circulation. A newer method where a stent is placed in the parent artery to redirect blood flow away from the aneurysm, allowing it to heal. Abdominal aortic aneurysms larger than 5.5 cm in diameter are typically recommended for repair. Smaller aneurysms may warrant repair if they are rapidly growing or symptomatic. Pain compression of surrounding structures or other symptoms often necessitate immediate intervention. Aneurysm rupture is a surgical emergency requiring immediate repair, either open or endovascular depending on the patient condition. Determining the best approach requires careful evaluation of patient specific factors such as comorbidities and anatomy.

Vascular grafts

The high cost of advanced imaging and repair techniques limits accessibility in resource-constrained settings. Long-term survival depends on patient age comorbidities and adherence to follow up care. Minimally invasive techniques offer faster recovery and reduced physical strain improving overall patient satisfaction. While EVAR has a higher intervention rate due to issues like end leaks advancements in stent technology are addressing these challenges. Development of vascular grafts that mimic natural tissue for better integration and durability. Use of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) for surgical planning and training. Targeting genetic pathways associated with aneurysm formation to prevent their development. Aneurysm repair represents a critical component of modern vascular surgery saving countless lives through timely intervention and advanced techniques. From traditional open repair to innovative EVAR the field continues to evolve offering safer and more effective options for patients. As research advances and technology improves aneurysm repair is poised to become even more precise and accessible ensuring better outcomes and quality of life for patients worldwide. The commitment to innovation and comprehensive care underscores the vital role of aneurysm repair in contemporary medicine.