Open Surgical Aneurysm Repair

If you are experiencing symptoms from your aneurysm or it is larger than about 2 inches (or 5.0 to 5.5 centimeters) in diameter or is observed to be getting larger, we may recommend that a direct abdominal incision be made to repair the aneurysm. In an open surgical repair, an incision is made in your abdomen and the weakened aneurismal part of your aorta is replaced with a graft material. The graft is made of synthetic material, such as Dacron or Gortex.

Despite the longer recovery, open surgery has a long history of treatment success and may be recommended for younger people who would otherwise have to face prolonged Endograft follow-up tests and/or procedures.

Some of the risks and complications of abdominal surgery include:

Swelling around the surgical incision and in the legs
Infection or infections at incision site
Respiratory problems, including pneumonia
Kidney problems
Paraplegia or paralysis
Heart attack
Stroke
Rarely, re-operation or death.
Injury to the blood supply of the colon or spinal cord
Blood clots in legs

Preparing for Open Surgery

Before open surgery:

Have cardiac, pulmonary and blood tests as advised by your surgeon.
Stop taking aspirin and ibuprofen if directed. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements or herbs that you have been taking. You may need to stop these medicines before the surgery.
Arrange to take 6 weeks off of work.
Pack for a hospital stay of 5 to 7 days.
Follow a clear liquid diet the day before, and don’t eat or drink after midnight before the procedure.

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