Your Aortic Aneurysm Surgery: What To Expect and FAQs

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Aortic aneurysm occurs when the vessel widens and the wall becomes thin. Similar to inflating a balloon, the larger the aneurysm, the more likely it is to rupture. Surgery can remove the aneurysm and prevent the risk of rupture or dissection.

Aneurysms can be caused by genetic disorders (like Marfan disease), or a bicuspid aortic valve, as well as lifestyle factors such as smoking and the natural effects of aging.

Columbia’s Approach to Aortic Surgery:

We’re here for our patients for life.
Our goal is to build trust and establish a long-term relationship with you.
We’ll answer any questions and schedule all exams and appointments as needed.

Before Your Surgery

We’ll perform a comprehensive history, physical exam, and medication review. We may do other tests like:

EKG gated CTA or MRI
Echo: transthoracic or transesophageal
Preadmission blood work (no fasting required), chest x-ray, EKG, and urine tests

Our genetics team will speak to you about testing for Marfan syndrome and other connective tissue disorders.

Your first visit may take 1-2 hours to allow us to carefully review your information.

The Operation

The surgeon will make an incision in the chest (sternotomy) to access the aorta.

The diseased portion of the aorta is removed, and a synthetic graft (a tube-like device) is sewn into place to replace the weakened section of the aorta.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.

On average, the procedure lasts anywhere from 3-5 hours.

After Your Surgery

The typically hospital stay for this surgery is 3-4 days. It is common to move out of the ICU and into a regular hospital room the next day.

You can return to work, driving, and resume heavy lifting 4 weeks after your surgery.

People with aortic disease require lifelong follow-up care to ensure the graft is functioning properly. We offer a comprehensive surveillance imaging program after surgery.

Aortic Aneurysm Surgery FAQs

Q: When is aortic aneurysm surgery necessary?

Surgery is usually recommended when 1) an aneurysm reaches a diameter of 5.0cm or large, depending on its location and your overall health, 2) if an aneurysm is growing quickly, surgery may be needed even if it is not yet very large or 3) if you experience symptoms like severe back pain, chest pain, or shortness of breath, it could indicate a rupture aneurysm requiring immediate surgery.

Q: Are there any complications?

Like all invasive procedures, there is risk of bleeding either during or after, risk of infection at the incision site, stroke (particularly during surgery on the ascending aorta), kidney damage, and other heart complications like arrhythmia especially in patient with pre-existing heart conditions.

Q: How long will the surgery last?

The duration of the surgery can vary but it typically lasts between 3-5 hours which includes preparation for surgery, administration of anesthesia, and transfer to the ICU.

Q: How soon can I return to normal activities?

You should avoid driving and strenuous activities including exercise and heavy lifting greater than 10 lbs for several weeks.

Q: Can an aortic aneurysm come back after surgery?

While the repaired section of the aorta is usually stable after surgery, there is a small risk of a new aneurysm forming in other parts of the aorta. Regular monitoring after surgery is crucial to catch any changes early.

Q: Is aortic aneurysm surgery covered by insurance?

Yes.

Need an Aortic Aneurysm Surgeon?

At NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, our cardiac surgeons are world-leaders in aortic aneurysm surgery.

If you or a loved one want our experts on your side, call (212) 305-2633 or use our appointment request form.

Resources

Heart Surgery Guides: What to Expect

Procedural Guides: What to Expect and FAQs

This content has been created by Columbia’s Health Guide Team. Learn more about our efforts to bring you the clearest, most accurate, and most human health resources available.