Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms | Endovascular Repair

Minimally invasive stent placement to prevent aneurysm rupture

Aortic aneurysms are weakened areas along the body’s main artery, and surgical repair may be necessary to prevent rupture. A tube called a stent can be placed within the aorta to reinforce the damaged area and minimize the risk of rupture.

Our Complex Aortic Center brings together cardiac and vascular surgeons to perform advanced minimally invasive techniques for complex aneurysm repairs. We are one of the few centers in the greater D.C. area using stent-grafts throughout the aorta.

What to expect

Your doctor may ask you to not eat, drink, or take medications before the procedure. The doctor will insert an IV in your arm or hand to provide fluids, medications, and a sedative to relax you. You will lie on a procedure table with an X-ray machine.

You will be placed under a general anesthetic. In an area in your groin or arm, your surgeon will make a small puncture to insert a thin, flexible tube called a catheter, which carries the stent. The surgeon will guide the catheter to the aneurysm using the X-ray images to confirm placement. Then they will connect the stent on either side of the aneurysm to allow blood to pass through the aorta without putting pressure on the aneurysm. The doctor will then remove the catheter.

You will be taken to a recovery area to be monitored and will likely stay in the hospital for two to three days to recover.