Fenestrated Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair (FEVAR)

Minimally Invasive Aortic Aneurysm Repair

The heart and vascular specialists at SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital and SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital - Madison have a new option for patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). A fenestrated endovascular aortic aneurysm repair, also known as FEVAR, is a minimally invasive procedure that corrects a compromised section of the aorta close to the kidneys. During this procedure, surgeons repair the aorta through small incisions in your groin or arms while still preserving blood flow to the arteries to your kidneys.

This new procedure is made possible by a new, innovative FDA-approved stent that has holes. The holes in the stent allow the blood to continue to circulate to the kidneys even as the procedure is being performed, lowering the risk of kidney failure.

About Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)

The aorta is the largest artery in the body, running from the heart through the chest and abdomen. An AAA is swelling or bulging that occurs anywhere in the lower part of the aorta. The goal of treatment for the condition is to prevent the aneurysm from rupturing, either by using medication to control blood pressure or surgically repairing the weakened artery wall. In the past, repair required extensive open surgery because of the tight positioning of the organs and tissues of the abdomen.

Who is Eligible for FEVAR?

FEVAR is a safe alternative for patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms located close to their kidneys.

Benefits of the Procedure

• Less time in the hospital. Prior to FEVAR, the main treatment option for complex abdominal aortic aneurysm was an open surgery, which normally required prolonged ICU and hospital stays totaling 7-9 days. With FEVAR, patients are able to go home in about two days, on average.
• Lowered risk of kidney failure. Because the circulation to the kidneys is not interrupted, the risk for kidney failure following the fenestrated endovascular aortic aneurysm is reduced.

Contact a heart and vascular specialist at Saint Louis University Hospital or SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital - Madison to learn more about the procedure and whether it might be right for you.