TEVAR is a minimally invasive treatment for conditions that affect the aorta, such as aneurysm, dissection, transection and stenosis. Our cardiothoracic surgeons will evaluate your condition to determine whether TEVAR is right for you.
How Does It Work?
Cardiothoracic surgeons perform TEVAR through a tiny incision in your groin. Before repairing the aorta, surgeons take an angiogram – an X-ray image of your arterial system that identifies blockages. Through the same incision, they access the aorta with a catheter tipped with a small stent graft. The surgeon guides the catheter through the blood vessel to the part of the aorta in need of repair. Using X-ray guidance, the surgeon will deploy the stent graft to repair the diseased part of the aorta and keep it open so blood can flow to the rest of the body.
The procedure can be performed using local or general anesthesia, which means you may be fully asleep during TEVAR. Following the operation, you may feel discomfort or pain around the incision.
What Is the Aorta?
The aorta is the major blood vessel in your body and is responsible for transporting blood from your heart to the rest of your body. At its widest points, the aorta is more than 1 inch wide. Blood travels through the aorta to the brain, arms and chest. It forks off at your belly button into branches that supply blood to each leg.
For more information about Parkridge Cardiothoracic Surgery or to schedule an appointment, call (423) 698-2435.