Endovascular Surgery
What is Endovascular Surgery?
Endovascular surgeries use specialized instruments and catheters to treat vascular diseases from within the blood vessels. This minimally invasive approach allows cardiovascular surgeons to navigate and treat vascular conditions with precision, reducing risks, and promoting faster recovery.
Endovascular surgery addresses a wide spectrum of vascular conditions, including aneurysms (bulges in artery walls), artery narrowing (stenosis), blood clots that can obstruct blood flow (thrombosis), and vascular malformations (structural abnormalities in blood vessels).
Risks vs. Benefits of Endovascular Surgery
As with any medical procedure, endovascular surgery comes with its own set of risks and benefits. These risks and benefits vary depending on the specific procedure being performed. If you are considering endovascular surgery, it is important to talk to your cardiovascular specialist about the risks and benefits of your specific endovascular procedure. They can help you determine if this is the right treatment for you and answer any questions you may have. Some key advantages and risks include:
Benefits of Endovascular Surgery
- Minimally invasive
Endovascular surgery reduces the need for large incisions, resulting in minimal scarring, less pain, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgeries. - Shorter hospital stays
Many endovascular procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day or with shorter hospital stays. - Reduced risk of complications
With smaller incisions, the risk of infection, bleeding, and other complications is significantly reduced, promoting better outcomes for patients. - Vascular disease management
Endovascular surgery is effective in treating a wide range of vascular conditions, including peripheral artery disease, aortic aneurysms, and carotid artery disease. - Improved quality of life
By restoring proper blood flow and treating vascular issues, patients often experience relief from symptoms, leading to an enhanced quality of life.
Risks of Endovascular Surgery
- Bleeding
There is a small risk of bleeding at the site where the catheter was inserted. - Pain
The catheter insertion site may be sore for 1 to 2 weeks following the procedure. - Infection
There is a small risk of infection at the site where the catheter was inserted. - Stroke
There is a small risk of stroke, especially in patients who have a history of stroke or other vascular problems. - Restenosis
In some cases, the artery may narrow again after the procedure.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Endovascular Surgery
Endovascular surgery usually takes a few hours and is done under anesthesia. Your cardiovascular surgeon will meet with you to discuss the procedure and administer tests, such as blood tests and an electrocardiogram (EKG), prior to the procedure.
After the procedure, you may have some pain, but this can be controlled with medication. You will also be given instructions on how to care for the incisions. Most patients are able to go home the same day or the day after the procedure. However, some patients may need to stay in the hospital for a few days. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Your doctor will likely prescribe you pain medication, antibiotics, and other medications to help you recover from the procedure.
- You will likely be tired after the procedure, so it is important to get plenty of rest.
- You will need to monitor your incisions and make sure they are clean and dry. If you notice any redness, swelling, or bleeding, contact your doctor immediately.
- You will need to avoid strenuous activity for a few weeks after the procedure. This will help to prevent bleeding and other complications.
- Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself after the procedure. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.
Am I a Candidate for Endovascular Surgery?
Your eligibility for endovascular surgery depends on various factors, including your vascular condition, the severity of this condition, overall health, and individual circumstances. Our cardiovascular specialists will thoroughly evaluate your consultation to determine if endovascular surgery is the right option for you.
Some key factors that may influence your candidacy include.
- Vascular condition
The type and severity of your vascular condition will be assessed to determine if endovascular surgery is appropriate for your specific case. - Overall health
Your general health will be evaluated to ensure you can tolerate the procedure and recover successfully. - Medical history
Any pre-existing medical conditions and previous treatments will be considered to make an informed decision about the suitability of endovascular surgery. - Age
Age is a relevant factor, as it can impact how well a patient responds to the procedure and recovers afterward. - Lifestyle and activity level
Your activity level and lifestyle choices may influence the success and outcomes of endovascular surgery. - Ability to adhere to post-procedural care instructions
Your commitment to following post-procedure care instructions is crucial for a smooth and successful recovery.