Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

The management of aortic aneurysms has evolved over the last 20 years from open surgical repair as the standard therapy to endovascular stent-graft placement as the treatment of choice in anatomically suitable patients. This chapter introduces the basic pathophysiology, clinical symptoms, and indications for repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and describes the conventional approaches of conservative medical management and open surgical repair for these lesions. The concept and rationale supporting endovascular AAA repair (EVAR) are presented. The importance of pre-procedure planning is emphasized, and a detailed “How To” section explains the technical steps of the procedures. The most common risks and complications of EVAR are reviewed, and tips to avoid these adverse events are provided.