Questions and Answers – Endovascular Stent Grafting

If you have an abdominal aortic aneurysm, how do you know if endovascular stent grafting is right for you? Here are some questions and answers about endovascular stent grafting for you to talk about with your doctor and family members.

• Am I a candidate for endovascular stent grafting?
• Will endovascular stent grafting cure my condition?
• If I have the surgery how long will it take me to recover?
• Can I still play golf?
• What are other treatment alternatives for abdominal aortic aneurysm?
• Where can I find a doctor who specialises in abdominal aortic aneurysm treatment?

Am I a candidate for endovascular stent grafting?

Endovascular stent grafting depends on several factors, including your age, race, physical condition, family history, the condition and size of your aorta, and the location and size of your aortic aneurysm. Your doctor will perform a medical examination and a series of tests to help decide if endovascular stent grafting is right for you.

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Will endovascular stent grafting cure my condition?

When you have an abdominal aortic aneurysm, you will live with it for the rest of your life. The endovascular stent graft may help prevent rupture of your aneurysm, but you need to be aware of your condition and make necessary lifestyle changes to avoid complications.

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If I have the surgery how long will it take me to recover?

Every individual is different, but after the endovascular stent grafting procedure, you can expect to spend 2 to 4 days in the hospital. Your doctor will give you instructions about what to eat and do before and after the endovascular stent graft surgery.

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Can I still play golf?

A few weeks after endovascular stent graft surgery you should be able to resume your normal activities. Your doctor will give you specific instructions about what you should and should not do.

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What are other treatment alternatives for abdominal aortic aneurysm?

If your abdominal aortic aneurysm is small, your doctor may recommend periodic exams and prescribe medications and lifestyle changes to reduce high blood pressure, cholesterol levels and smoking habits. If the aneurysm expands, your treatment alternatives are most likely open surgery and endovascular stent grafting.

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Where can I find a doctor who specialises in abdominal aortic aneurysm treatment?

There are many endovascular specialists around the country, your doctor will refer you to your local specialist for advice and treatment if necessary, alternately you could ask your doctor for recommendations to specialists and utilise your private health care insurance to book an appointment. 

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