An aortic aneurysm is the ballooning of a large artery in the abdomen caused by the weakening of the arterial wall. There are usually no symptoms, except occasional low back pain. A large aneurysm can burst without warning, causing internal bleeding. Surgery is recommended to repair a large aneurysm and prevent rupture.

Preparation
After you and your physician have discussed the procedure, you will be asked to sign a consent form. Please read it carefully and ask any questions you have.

You may be admitted to the hospital the night before your procedure, but your physician may also choose to admit you two or three hours before your procedure. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the procedure.

An intravenous needle will be placed in your arm. Blood may be drawn for laboratory tests, a chest x-ray and electrocardiogram will be taken and you will receive medication to help you relax.

The Procedure
The procedure requires general anesthesia and several hours in the operating room.

During the procedure, the surgeon will locate and expose the aneurysm. The aorta will be clamped to prevent bleeding and the aneurysm will be opened. A synthetic graft will be stitched to the aorta. When this is complete, the clamps will be released and blood flow will be restored to the legs.

Following the Procedure
You will remain in a surgical telemetry unit of the hospital for five to seven days. When you return home, you will be restricted from driving or returning to work for several weeks.