Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Surgery

Surgery Overview

Open surgery is done to repair an abdominal aortic aneurysm. It is called an open surgery because the abdomen is opened so the doctor can see and work on the aorta.

Your aorta is a large artery that carries blood from your heart through your belly to the rest of your body.

To do the surgery, the doctor makes a large cut (incision) in your belly or side. The doctor replaces the weak and bulging section of the aorta with a man-made tube (called a graft). General anesthesia is used for this surgery.

You may spend several days in the hospital. You will need to take it easy for at least 4 to 6 weeks at home.