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Open Repair Surgery for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Why It Is Done
Repairing an aortic aneurysm is typically recommended if the aneurysm is at risk of bursting open (rupturing). Aortic aneurysms that are large, are causing symptoms, or are rapidly getting bigger are considered at risk of rupturing.
In men, repair is typically recommended for an abdominal aortic aneurysm that is 5.5 cm or larger in diameter. In women, repair may be recommended for smaller aneurysms.Reference 2
Your doctor will work with you to decide which type of repair surgery, open or endovascular, is right for you. Your doctor will check:Reference 3
- The shape and location of your aneurysm.
- Your age and overall health, to make sure that you are healthy enough for a surgery.
- If you are able and willing to have the yearly tests that are needed after endovascular repair. Testing is done less often after an open repair.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: February 22, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference David A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery |
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