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5.3 Aortic Aneurysm Surgery Completed
Hello All:
This past Wednesday I had my 5.3 AA repaired by Dr. Black at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore. I went in the operating room at 9:30 and woke up in recovery at 12:30. Dr. Black made two small incisions in my groin. He was there when I woke up and said “Relax for two weeks and then get back on the golf course.” I am relaxing and thankful to God and my family. My recommendation to all of you with an AA of 5.0 or greater, “Go find an expert vascular surgeon and get the operation.”
Nick
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No, TEVARS are not developed for an ascending aneurysm replacement. It's a full sternotomy. I had mine replaced at 5.3 cm and was in ICU for 7 days. Pretty difficult time, with massive delirium, which they tell me is pretty common. It will take a lot out of you and the recovery will take 3-4 months, but better than an emergency surgery, where the risks of dying is extremely high if there is a tear or rupture.
All the best.
The doc said not to lift anything over 30 pounds, not to strain in such a way as to raise blood pressure such as holding one's breath and straining, keep my blood pressure as low as possible but aside from those restrictions, to go about my life like I have been in the past. I still go on walks an hikes with my wife. I still continue working on building our house and shop. I am kinda disappointed that I can no longer do much of any weight lifting or strenuous work outs. As long as I can do this and stay healthy, I am thankful and blessed. Sure beats being 6 foot under.
I would causing you not to be overly eager or in a rush to have surgery. From what I have read and researched, repair of an ascending aortic aneurysm in most instances is not a good candidate for arthroscopic surgery that typically is accomplished through a small incision in the artery in the groin. I found some ascending aortic artery repair surgery video's and watched them to get an idea of what all was involved. I doubt I would never have that surgery and only as a last option to save my life as long as other options are available. It is a roughly 14 hour surgery.
Sometimes in life, it's best to make due with what you have. Depending upon age, current health status, and other factors, the risk may not be worth it. My opinion may and probably will change as time goes on but for now, I think I will wait, "fly it, and watch it", and keep an eye on what the Good Lord, advances in medical treatment & science will bring.