Introduction
Thoracic endovascular aortic repair is a surgically invasive procedure that is used to treat any kind of aneurysm that has developed in the upper section of the aorta. An aneurysm is generally referred to as the weakening and ballooning of an artery. The entire artery does not swell instead, only a part of it does. At times, aneurysms are fatal. Most of the time, they have no symptoms until and unless they rupture. Aorta is a major blood vessel of the heart that pumps and supplies blood to the entire body. The aorta starts running from the heart through the center of the body, mainly the chest and abdomen. The aorta is the largest blood vessel in the body. In case the aorta gets ruptured in the lower portion, an abdominal aortic aneurysm starts to form, which can easily lead to life-threatening internal bleeding. It should be noted that thoracic endovascular aortic repair or TEVAS is a surgical procedure but is definitely minimally invasive in nature, with only a tiny length of the incision and a stent to reinforce the aneurysm.
When Is Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair Suggested?
The aorta is the largest blood vessel or the largest artery of the body. It functions to carry the oxygenated or oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the entire body. It passes from within the heart via the chest and goes inside the belly or the abdomen. The aorta then divides into several blood vessels that begin to provide a smooth flow of blood down toward the lower extremities. At times, a weak and thin section of the aorta may bulge out, and then there is an increased risk of the aorta bursting and eventually growing as it gets bigger and more serious. It should be noted that the ideal candidate and the patient for whom thoracic endovascular aortic repair is suggested is the one who is suffering from a thoracic aneurysm that has not yet ruptured but has grown in size to approximately five centimeters.
Are There Any Risks of Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair?
Yes, with all kinds of surgically invasive procedures having their own set of risks, thoracic endovascular aortic repair has a certain amount of risk and complications involved, which may be easily avoided if done with great expertise and if the patient has explained in detail all the present illness along with thorough medical and drug history. Mentioned below are a few of the thoracic endovascular aortic repair complications that may occur.
-
Development of an infection.
-
Excessive bleeding.
-
Injury to organs nearby.
-
Formation of blood clots.
-
Increased risks from anesthesia.
-
Kidney damage.
-
Allergy from the dye used in X-ray.
-
Device failure.
-
Injury to a blood vessel.
-
A leaking graft.
-
Paralysis.
-
Movement of the graft.
-
Loss of a limb.
-
Open surgery.
-
Growth of the aneurysm.
How Does Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair Take Place?
TEVAR, or thoracic endovascular aortic repair, is one of the minimally invasive procedures that is used to treat an aortic aneurysm. This procedure occurs with a small or tiny cut or incision. Thoracic endovascular aortic repair is done only by a team of professionals. mentioned below are the steps that occur during thoracic endovascular aortic repair. It should be mentioned that before the beginning of this treatment, the patient is suggested to inform the healthcare provider about his or her medical history, drug history, allergies from certain drugs- blood thinners and anesthesia, as well as pregnancy.
-
Anesthesia is given to the patient, and it may be either general anesthesia or local anesthesia, which is decided by the healthcare provider.
-
The vital signs such as the heart rate, blood pressure, and several other important measures are kept under constant monitoring.
-
A tiny incision is made near the groin and the arm.
-
The incisions are for the insertion of a catheter into the artery.
-
A stent graft is attached at the very end of the catheter, which is made up of a thin mesh of metal and is covered with a graph which is made of polyester fabric.
-
The tube is further collapsed because of the requirement of a narrow area that will be able to fit within the blood vessel.
-
With the help of a guide, generally an X-ray, the catheter is inserted into the aorta in a smooth manner.
-
After the stent is placed, the metal frame is expanded and fastened into the appropriate place.
-
The metal frame expands a lot and fits well in the inner walls of the aorta leading to a stable flow of blood.
-
The aneurysm is then far away from the risk of getting burst and will additionally shrink over time.
-
Once this is completed, the catheter is removed, and the incision is stitched, followed by the placement of a bandage.
How Is Aortic Aneurysm Prevented?
Controlling blood pressure has proven to be one of the best ways to keep abdominal aortic aneurysms or any other kind of aneurysm at bay. Regular exercise and following a heart-smart diet are necessary. In addition, one should invest in quitting the habit of smoking and using other tobacco products. Keeping a check on cholesterol levels is also mandatory for a healthy lifestyle.
Conclusion
An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal bulge in the heart vessel. It occurs for multiple reasons, where suffering from untreated hypertension is the leading cause. Thoracic endovascular aortic repair is a minimally invasive procedure to treat an aortic aneurysm. Not everybody is chosen for this particular repair, but only a few have met the needed criteria and clinical conditions. After the procedure is over, the patient is expected to stay at the hospital for a week or so. The patient is suggested to avoid any kind of heavy activity or strenuous activity for around a month. In case the patient suffers from fever or bleeding from the site of incision, the patient is expected to immediately report to the respective health care provider. Regular visits to the healthcare provider, keeping vital signs in check, and living a heart-healthy as well as active lifestyle are key factors to avoiding the development and formation of aortic aneurysm.
