Endovascular aortic aneurysm repair, or an EVAR procedure from Memorial Hermann

Bursting aortic aneurysms kill an estimated 15,000 Americans each year, but patients with chronic health problems sometimes can't withstand the traditional surgery used to prevent rupture. Endovascular aortic aneurysm repair, or EVAR, offers a minimally invasive alternative for such patients. On May 25 at 5:30 p.m. CDT, vascular surgeon Ali Azizzadeh, M.D., performed an EVAR procedure carried live in a global Webcast from Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, Texas. The EVAR technique involves making small incisions in the groin and threading catheter tubes through the femoral arteries and into the aorta. There, the surgical team places a fabric-covered metal stent. Channeling blood flow through the stent relieves pressure on the ballooned artery, preventing a rupture. Patients can remain conscious under local anesthesia during the procedure.

Google Video | June 15, 2005

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