Expert Aortic Aneurysm Repair at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican Hospitals
An aortic aneurysm is a dangerous bulge in the wall of the aorta. This major artery transports oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. An aneurysm can occur anywhere along the aorta. However, they mainly occur in the part nearest the heart and the section lower in the abdomen. Aortic aneurysm repair surgery aims to repair a ruptured aorta or prevent it from rupturing.
Call (702) 616-4900 or Find a Doctor at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican hospitals who is an expert in aortic aneurysm repair in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV.
Preventing & Repairing Aortic Aneurysm Rupture
An aortic aneurysm rupture is a life-threatening medical emergency. It requires emergency surgery to stop the bleeding and repair or replace the injured part of the artery. If doctors find an aneurysm before it ruptures, they often can put a stent inside the artery to prevent it from bursting.
What to Expect from Aortic Aneurysm Surgery
No matter where the rupture occurs along the aorta, open heart surgery may be necessary. Sometimes, this involves removing the damaged part of the aorta and replacing it with an artificial vessel. You can expect to spend several days in the hospital.
If you have an abdominal aortic aneurysm and it becomes enlarged, you may need a procedure to reduce the chance of a rupture. This procedure, called endovascular stent grafting, takes place in a hospital. It involves making a small incision in an artery in your groin. You can expect to stay in the hospital for several days.
All types of aortic aneurysm repair surgeries have certain risks. Risks include uncontrolled bleeding, post-operative blood clots in the legs, pain, and the need for more surgery.
Aortic Aneurysm Recovery in Las Vegas, NV
If you have open heart surgery, your recovery may take weeks or months, depending on your overall health. To restore your quality of life, your doctor may recommend cardiac rehabilitation. These programs include physical therapy, nutrition counseling, and much more. Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican offers these classes, as well as smoking cessation and wellness education.
If your doctor places a stent, your recovery may go more quickly. Your doctor may restrict your activity level at first, until the stent is stable. Talk with your doctor about the types of physical activities that are right for you. Be sure to report any unusual symptoms, including fever.
Aortic aneurysm repair can save your life or prevent a catastrophic health event. If you are a man over age 65 and have ever smoked, ask a doctor at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican about an abdominal aortic aneurysm screening or take our heart health assessment to ensure you receive the treatment you need.
Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican hospitals offers surgery for aortic aneurysm repair in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV.