Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is a minimally invasive method to treat an aortic aneurysm by inserting a graft within the aneurysm through small groin incisions and using X-rays to guide the graft into place.
What is an aortic aneurysm?
An aortic aneurysm is a bulging, dilation or ballooning in the wall of a blood vessel, usually an artery, that is due to weakness or degeneration that develops in a portion of the artery wall. As the aneurysm enlarges, it stretches the walls of the artery thinner which compromises the artery wall’s ability to stretch any further. If the aneurysm ruptures it could cause potentially fatal bleeding.
What is endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR)?
Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is a mechanical solution to the problem of progressive expansion of abdominal aortic aneurysm and the risk of rupture. While open surgical repair is very effective, it carries substantial risks from the extensive surgical procedure. Endovascular grafting is a minimally invasive method, developed to reduce the risks associated with open surgery and to provide a treatment option for patients who are not deemed to be surgical candidates.
