Common Conditions
Aortic Aneurysms: Patient Information Sheet
Overview
| Patient Information Sheet
Aortic Aneurysms Overview
You have an abdominal aortic aneurysm and have been advised to have it repaired. This is an information sheet which advises you of the pros and cons of having this operation and answers to common worries that patients have. It is not intended to replace a consultation nor is it intended to be a textbook of surgery.
The main risk of not repairing your aneurysm is that of rupture. This is a very serious event and usually results in death.
Very occasionally, I advise patients that they should not have their abdominal aneurysm repaired. This is usually because of extreme frailty associated with a small aneurysm.
Most operations are undertaken without major complications. However, one in 20 patients (approximately 5%) will suffer with a complication resulting in death. This is usually as a result of failure of one or more of the organ systems. In particular the heart, kidneys and lungs are put under great strain and may not be able to withstand the surgery. Other major, albeit, infrequent complications are loss of limb and sometimes, stroke. It is also likely that you will require some blood over the course of the operation - any objection to transfusion should be discussed. As aortic aneurysms are common in men in their 60's and 70's, it should be noted that there is also a risk of erectile dysfunction (impotence) after this procedure.
On balance, the risks of not treating you outweigh the risks of surgery and you have been recommended to have your abdominal aneurysm repaired. Closer to the date of your operation, you will receive an appointment for a pre-operative visit to the hospital. You will receive further details of the operation and pre-operative preparations then, and will have the opportunity to ask any questions. However, if you have any worries that cannot wait until then, please make an appointment for my Out-patient Clinic at the hospital.
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