Physicians recommend treatment options for this condition based on size and symptoms. UH vascular physicians typically recommend careful monitoring for small aneurysms and surgery for larger ones. The goal is to control the aneurysm so it does not rupture or leak.

Lifestyle Changes

Individuals who live a healthy lifestyle are less likely to develop aneurysms, and those who recover from aneurysms can help minimize the likelihood of getting another by making changes to their lifestyle. The most important changes include:

  • Stop smoking. UH physicians recommend that patients who have suffered from an aneurysm stop smoking immediately. In support of that advice, UH offers smoking cessation classes for patients. Nicotine chewing gum and skin patches may also be helpful.
  • Maintain a healthful diet.
  • Exercise regularly.

Medical Treatments

Aneurysms that do not require surgery must be closely monitored. UH vascular physicians keep a close watch on the progress of an aneurysm and help control the risk factors that can contribute to its development:

  • Monitoring: If an aneurysm is small (less than 5 cm) and there are no symptoms, the doctor may recommend periodic evaluation, including an ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan to see if the aneurysm is growing. 
  • Modification of risk factors: UH vascular physicians recommend that patients speak to their primary care physicians about medications for maintaining healthy cholesterol, blood pressure and glucose levels.

Endovascular and Surgical Treatments

Following a comprehensive evaluation of the size and location of a patient's aneurysm, as well as an assessment of his or her general health, UH endovascular specialists and vascular surgeons recommend one of two approaches if surgery is appropriate:

  • Thoracic and/or abdominal aneurysm repair: A surgeon uses traditional surgery to open the abdomen and replaces the affected portion of the aorta with a graft made of synthetic material.
  • Endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR): A stent graft, a tube made of metal mesh, is sent to the artery through a catheter inserted in the groin area. It is permanently placed into the artery to support it. Endovascular stent grafting is done without making a large abdominal cut, shortening the patient's recovery period.