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Aortic Aneurysm Repair

Aortic Aneurysm Repair in Sarasota & Bradenton

Most Aortic Aneurysms Grow Slowly. We Help You Monitor Carefully — and Act at the Right Time.

An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal bulge or ballooning in the wall of the aorta — the main artery that carries blood from your heart through your chest and abdomen. Most aortic aneurysms grow slowly and cause no symptoms, which is why many are discovered incidentally on imaging ordered for another reason. But when they reach a critical size, the risk of rupture increases significantly, and rupture is a life-threatening emergency.

At Vascular Wellness Institute, our vascular surgeons evaluate and manage aortic aneurysms across the spectrum — from small aneurysms that are safely monitored with regular imaging to larger aneurysms that require intervention. We offer both endovascular repair (EVAR) and open surgical repair, and we have the experience to help you understand your options clearly.

Types of Aortic Aneurysm

The most common type is an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), which develops in the section of the aorta that runs through the abdomen. Thoracic aortic aneurysms occur in the chest portion of the aorta. Thoracoabdominal aneurysms span both regions. The treatment approach depends on the location, size, and rate of growth of the aneurysm, as well as your overall health and anatomy.

EVAR: Endovascular Aneurysm Repair

Endovascular repair is the most commonly performed approach for abdominal aortic aneurysms today. During EVAR, a stent-graft — a fabric tube supported by a metal frame — is delivered through catheters inserted in the groin and positioned inside the aorta to seal off the aneurysm. Blood flows through the graft rather than into the weakened aneurysm wall, substantially reducing the risk of rupture. However, EVAR does not eliminate rupture risk entirely — endoleak, sac expansion, stent migration, or graft failure can occur over time, which is why lifelong imaging surveillance is required after EVAR.

EVAR does not require opening the abdomen. Most patients are discharged within one to two days and recover more quickly than with open surgery. However, EVAR requires lifelong imaging surveillance to ensure the graft remains properly positioned and functioning.

Open Aortic Repair

Open surgical repair of an aortic aneurysm involves making an incision in the abdomen to directly access the aorta. The aneurysm is opened and a synthetic graft is sewn in place to replace the weakened segment. Open repair is a major surgery with a longer recovery, but it is durable and does not require the long-term surveillance that EVAR requires. Open repair remains the preferred approach for certain anatomies, younger patients, and aneurysms not suitable for endovascular treatment.

Monitoring vs. Repair

Not every aortic aneurysm requires immediate surgery. For smaller aneurysms — generally below 5.0 to 5.5 centimeters in diameter — the risk of rupture is low enough that careful monitoring with regular imaging is the standard of care. Surgery is typically considered when the aneurysm reaches or exceeds 5.5 cm, grows rapidly, or causes symptoms. Your vascular surgeon will review your imaging and give you a clear recommendation based on current guidelines from the Society for Vascular Surgery.

Anesthesia Type

General

Typical Duration

2–5 hrs

Performed At

Hospital

Recovery Time

2-5 days

Hospital Stay​

EVAR: 1–2 nights. Open: 5–7 nights

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do I know if I have an aortic aneurysm? +

    Most aortic aneurysms cause no symptoms and are found incidentally on imaging — an ultrasound, CT scan, or X-ray ordered for another reason. Medicare covers a one-time abdominal aortic aneurysm screening ultrasound for men aged 65 to 75 who have smoked at least 100 cigarettes in their lifetime. If you have a family history of aortic aneurysm, ask your doctor about screening.

  • What size aneurysm requires surgery? +

    The general threshold for elective repair is 5.5 centimeters in diameter for abdominal aortic aneurysms, though this varies based on individual risk factors, growth rate, anatomy, and symptoms. Your vascular surgeon will apply current clinical guidelines to your specific situation and explain the recommendation clearly.

  • Is EVAR or open surgery better? +

    Both are valid options depending on your anatomy and health status. EVAR has a lower short-term risk and faster recovery, but requires long-term imaging surveillance. Open surgery is more invasive but is durable and may be preferable for younger, healthier patients or those with anatomy not suitable for EVAR. Your surgeon will recommend the approach with the best evidence for your situation.

  • Can an aortic aneurysm repair itself? +

    No. Aortic aneurysms do not shrink or heal on their own. They typically grow slowly over time. Medical management — blood pressure control, smoking cessation, and statin therapy — may slow growth but does not reverse it. Regular surveillance is essential for all aneurysms not yet requiring repair.

  • Does Medicare cover aortic aneurysm screening? +

    Yes. Medicare Part B covers a one-time AAA screening ultrasound for men aged 65–75 who have smoked. It is billed as part of the Welcome to Medicare preventive visit. Speak with your primary care physician about scheduling this if you qualify.