Connect
← Return to Upcoming surgery to repair AAA
Discussion
Upcoming surgery to repair AAA
Aortic Aneurysms | Last Active: 1 day ago | Replies (4)Comment receiving replies
My brother (80 years old) has had this surgery twice over the last few years with no complications or cognitive issues. He has a 3rd aneurysm now that doctors are watching closely. I, his sister age 79, have fairly recently been diagnosed with a very small AAA that my heart specialist is watching closely. What I can say is that in my family where this aneurysm is genetic (our mother died from an undiagnosed AAA) there is really no other intelligent choice. Without the surgery, the outcome over time is most likely death. My 85 year old uncle who had the surgery, as well as my now 80 year old brother who has survived the surgery twice show absolutely no cognitive issues. I hope this helps. The surgeries in my family have been uncomplicated and life-saving. When doctors tell me that it's time for the surgery to repair my aneurysm, I will absolutely do so with confidence. I am an English professor so my cognitive abilities are also very important to me. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Replies to "My brother (80 years old) has had this surgery twice over the last few years with..."
Connect
@professorkrh
Thank you for your input. I am 81 y.o. female with an ascending aortic aneurysm, 4.8 cm. I have consulted with 2 very experienced cardiothoracic surgeons recently. Each were head of their cardiothoracic departments at major NYC hospitals. Surgeon #1 said age was a concern, but my 57" height was a greater concern. He said it had a proportionate impact on my aneurysm size and that it might be larger. Surgeon #2 said age was not an issue and he quoted 80 y.os and 90 y.os who had no problem with surgery. He also said my 57" height was not an issue. Surgeon #1 left the decision for surgery up to me but emphasized his concern for my height and age. He recommended getting another CT scan in 6 months if I did not want surgery. Surgeon #2 said even with a 4.8 cm aneurysm, he did not recommend surgery since I was asymptomatic and healthy. He recommended another CT scan in one year. He would consider surgery once I am over 5.0 cm. By that time, I may be in my mid 80s and my fears for surgery at that age are not persuaded by his reassurances. But, as you wrote, there is really no other intelligent choice.....thank you again!