Endovascular aortic aneurysm repair is performed in the catheterization lab at Hahnemann University Hospital. The procedure is a minimally invasive surgery that generally reduces recovery time for patients.

It involves one small incision in the groin and the insertion of a catheter in the other groin. Using an endovascular catheter, stent and guidewire techniques, a synthetic graft device is maneuvered into place and opened like an umbrella. The graft replaces the section of aortic wall damaged by an aneurysm.

Traditional aortic aneurysm surgery requires an incision from the lower portion of the sternum to the pubis and requires up to a 7-day hospital stay for most patients; full recovery may take an additional six weeks.

Aneurysms occur mostly in older adults, particularly in men over 55 and in women over 70. They occur more often in men. With the new procedure, which is appropriate for about half the population with this condition, the patient can expect a more rapid recovery and, if there are no complications, may be discharged within 48 hours.